Tis’ the Season – Advent!

I was overcome with emotion today at mass as I realized how my spiritual journey and the journey of the church were coinciding so nicely. As I am revitalized in my faith this year, we begin again with the new church year. As advent begins, we wait in hopeful yearning for the coming of the Lord. As the new missal translation begins, so does my revived love for Catholicism and my newfound feeling of community with the church.

While the presiding priest gave us a short theology lesson before beginning mass this evening, and as people groaned each time a few members of the congregation just couldn’t remember to say, “and with your spirit,” I couldn’t help but think of this as a time not only to refresh my faith by paying careful attention to the words throughout the mass, but also how blessed I am to be a part of this church.

It has been a long and tumultuous journey and I just feel so blessed to be so open, ready, and willing be true to my faith and practice my religion to the best of my ability.

In his homily, the priest said to pay attention to the readings throughout this advent season and listen to what is being said. This week’s reading from Mark 13 ended with Jesus saying, “What I say to you, I say to all: ‘Watch!’” But what are we watching for? Immediately, I thought of watching for things we often overlook or take for granted.

One thing that has struck me as of late was the amount of homeless in Chicago. Every time I drive somewhere, I will see someone on the side of the road or coming up to car windows with a cup and a sign. As the winter months come upon us, it is important for us to remember and pray for all those who will not know warmth through the holiday season.

Something I also want to work on this week is my ability to see God’s presence in everyday life. I want to find, identify, and thank God for these moments. I believe it will enrich my spiritual life and my life in general to see these moments in the good times and the bad.

So as we enter into the advent season, which prepares us for the feast of Christmas, I know I will be listening carefully to the readings and praying over just exactly what Jesus is asking me to watch for.