Advent is about preparation. It is telling how we often act differently about our homes when we are going to have guests. My Father and Mother-in-law have been to visit us several times since we have moved to Bloomington-Normal. While I take care of my yard, and enjoy doing so, there are times when the grass has to wait another day due to my schedule or motivation. However, when I am having out of town guests, I am more likely to have everything done and cleaned up on time. Karen takes a similar approach inside the house so that everything is ready when our guests arrive. We want to make them comfortable and please them, not for some kind of unhealthy approval, but to bring them joy.
The Historic Church has taken a similar approach. While the
Season of Advent is not penitential for most traditions (as the Season of Lent
is), it is certainly a time of preparation and reflection. The Christ took on
flesh and came among us. Jesus will return in the final day to be the savior or
judge for all of humanity. Our hope is to have our house in order because of
our desire to serve and please our God. We want Him to find us reflecting His
heart and actions. We prepare by repentance of sin and the change of our
thinking through the transforming power of the Spirit. But we must engage,
work, and accomplish these changes through effort. We discipline ourselves when
we are struggling with our motivations or energy levels in doing what is right,
as we work toward a growing and genuine desire to Love the Lord our God and the
"neighbors" He has given us to illuminate with His light.
Let us prepare in Word and Sacrament together this Advent Season!
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