Advent

It's December 2nd as I write this, and there's a new dusting of snow on the ground outside my office, with considerably more in the forecast.  I think we may be headed into winter, right on schedule.

It's also the second day of Advent, when we focus on the coming of Jesus -- remembering his coming two thousand years ago (give or take), anticipating his coming to bring all of history to completion, and -- most immediate -- his coming into our own hearts and lives.

I encourage you to use these days of Advent, between now and Christmas Day, to focus intentionally on Jesus' coming.  Here is an excellent blog post that provides an easy-to-use format for families or groups of friends to celebrate a weekly ritual of scripture reading, candle lighting, and song.

Or, if you prefer, you can use this selection of scripture readings that includes the birth narratives of Jesus as part of anticipating his coming.  This might be a better choice if you are just doing this as an individual, but it's up to you.  I highly recommend, even if you're just doing these readings as an individual, that you light an "advent candle" (better yet, and advent wreath) while you focus on these meditations.

In any case, Advent is a great time to hunker down into the dark and quiet, more meditative days of December.  While we try so hard to put up lights and get our shopping done, it's worth setting aside a few moments each day to let your body, mind, and spirit be reflective and quiet, abiding with Jesus in the growing darkness, relishing his presence as the Light of the World.