Have you noticed that life has a constant buzz of urgency and busyness? I’ve recently retired and anticipated slowing down, but that turns out to be difficult. Squeezed in .between the engagements I enjoy are the commitments that have to be met, and there goes another day. This is why I love extended Advent, a full 40 days of intentional pausing on the path to meeting Jesus anew.
“Anew” is an important attitude. Our journey to the Christmas manger this year is not the same as it was last year. The moment needs to be grounded in the newness of where and who we are right now. Pause and consider the things that make you feel alive right now! They are certainly different than a few years ago, and different than they will be in a few years time.
Consider what makes you feel alive. Think of at least two things…
For me, it is simple things, carefree laughter with friends is top of the list. Other things come to mind such as… well, you have your own list. What makes you feel alive? Think about those things and put them in your gift basket to bring to the manger. Never mind the wrapping or a bow. Just come with gratitude for the things that burst with life.
Light your advent candle in your heart or light a real candle. Keep the passion for life shining in your heart.
Now, you can continue reading to bring life to the gospel reading for Sunday, or skip to the bottom for a short prayer for your week.
The gospel message for this Sunday… is it a story of life? i(f there were some things about this parable that bothered you in the past, you are right!) 10 bridesmaids are waiting for a really long time. The bride groom is late. The bride is nowhere to be seen. What are those young women doing sitting at the side of the road past midnight anyway? What kind of person is the groom that he is so late that some waiting guests run out of oil for their lamp. Then when he does show up, he slams the door in the face of some guests (I think they were the wise virgins.. that party has nothing they need! ) This story has drawn on themes of waiting and being prepared. We can ponder this cautionary lesson. Make sure that what we are waiting for is life giving and worth waiting for. The rude, thoughtless bridegroom of this passage is not the Jesus of love and grace, who heals and lifts up the downtrodden.
Life is tricky like that. We need to know who we are and whose we are.
Let us pray: Good and gracious Saviour, you are the light of our life. With you, we never end up abandoned and alone in darkness with empty lamps. Fill us with the joy of life, open our hearts and eyes to the things worth waiting for: especially your call to follow you in love and grace. Amen
Blessings to you in your Advent journey.
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