With hearts full of anticipation we await the coming of the baby Jesus this Advent season.
There is something about anticipation that excites us… the unknown element of what is to come. But, with awaiting the birth of Jesus Christ, we know what is coming, the way to our salvation!
Unlike years ago, when I dreaded the Advent and Christmas seasons and feared God because of my past sins, I now am able to understand “joy to the world,” because the truth of its meaning. The birth of “Mercy” Himself, is something I know to be true from my own experiences. I have met Him in my misery and He has bestowed His mercy upon me.
It is in this moment, God come to earth, that we are able to embrace all that He is and does for us, through His birth, suffering, death and resurrection. Most of us are also able to embrace Him every day, living in the Holy Eucharist where He speaks to our hearts and increases His life in us.
In this world of doubt and unrest, where peace is difficult to grasp, we need only look to Him to know our true peace. Jesus, who came into the world for our salvation, left for us the Blessed Sacrament in order to be with us always. As the words of the Hymn say:
I received the living God, and my heart is full of joy. ( I Received the Living God” - Anonymous)
May He be born in each of us so that we may be a visible sign of His Mercy to all we meet. May we embrace His presence in us so we may bring joy to the world not only in Advent and at Christmas, but each and every day!
Blessed Advent and Christmas to all of you! - TB
