It may seem strange to begin our liturgical year by looking toward the end of days. Yet it is precisely that glimpse into the end that helps us properly order everything we do leading up to that point. When we know what is coming, we can prepare for it.
The word “Advent” derives from the Latin words ad venire meaning “to come to.” This season gives us the opportunity to prepare our hearts and minds for Christ coming to us at the end of time, on the anniversary of his birth, and every day in between. Our Advent readings advise us to stay alert and be ever-ready for his arrival.
The Catechism of the Catholic Church explains: “The coming of God’s Son to earth is an event of such immensity that God willed to prepare for it over centuries. He makes everything converge on Christ” (CCC 522). We anticipate the nativity of the Lord with great joy. We acknowledge that God sent His only son out of infinite love for us, to illuminate the path that leads us to eternal life (John 3:16). Jesus enters into our darkness as the light of the world (John 8:12). Only when we follow in his footsteps do we look toward our final judgement with the same shining hope we celebrate at Christmas.
Therefore, Advent is a special time to consider how we can “Make straight the way of the Lord” (John 1:23). Our preparation necessitates righteous living and obedience to the will of God. Pope Benedict XVI recommends we use this season to get “ourselves ready to receive as a gift the light, joy and peace that shine from this mystery.” Saint Charles Borromeo says we “should always observe it with faith and love, offering praise and thanksgiving to the Father for the mercy and love he has shown us in this mystery.”
“The Lord is coming, always coming,” notes the Reverend Henri Nouwen. “When you have ears to hear and eyes to see, you will recognize him at any moment of your life. Life is Advent; life is recognizing the coming of the Lord.” The more we recognize Jesus in our lives, the stronger our love for him grows. As we let that fire burn in our hearts, we become the light of the world shining before others so “that they may see your good deeds and glorify your heavenly Father” (Matthew 5:14-16).
This month, the tradition of the Advent wreath provides the spiritual inspiration behind our “Weekly Challenge” section. Advent wreaths are typically made with evergreens, which represent eternal life. The circular shape indicates God’s unending love. Additional embellishments provide further symbolism, such as pointy holly leaves for the crown of thorns, red berries for the sacrifice of Precious Blood, and pinecones for the new life brought forth from the Resurrection. Within the wreath, one candle is reserved for each of the four weeks of Advent. Three of the candles are violet, signifying a time of prayer, penance, and sacrifice. That color also designates royalty. One rose candle depicts the joy of the season. Some wreaths feature a pure white candle in the center to represent Christ. The candlelight displays the light of the Lord. With the lighting of a new candle each passing week, our darkness is gradually dispelled as we approach the birth of our Messiah.
Please use the comments section to share your favorite Advent traditions and reflections.
