12-01-23

ECCLESIOLOGICAL ETCHINGS
December 1, 2023
I get a chuckle each time I see the post on Facebook that says something like, “There are only two pieces left in my chocolate Advent calendar. I guess that means Christmas is only two days away.” Like many of you, as I was growing up, I dreamed of being able to reduce the number of days until Christmas arrived. It would have been a double bonus if such a thing could occur by simply eating more chocolate. Of course, that’s not exactly what this season is about—making things move more quickly with more indulgences may just be the antithesis of Advent. Instead, it might be good for us to sit quietly and patiently with the idea that God’s immeasurable love seeks simplicity and humility as the best and most profound avenue. Take a moment to reflect on why leaning into the notion of waiting might be helpful in this moment of your life; take a moment to reflect on why simplicity and humility might be attributes that could be helpful in some difficult situation you are currently facing; take a moment to reflect on how slowing down with a slightly humbled heart and fewer possessions might make a little more room for God in your life. There are reasons we practice Advent. There are important reasons we stand in the midst of the chaos and consumerism that is December in America and say out loud, “We need to slow down and become less focused on stuff. We need to slow down and appreciate the sacred lives of those close to us.” May it be so!

Center me, Merciful God, in this season made holy by your gift that took on flesh to live among us. Slow me down enough to appreciate and embrace the priceless gifts of love and kindness, forgiveness and generosity. Amen.