Below is an Advent prayer by Father Henri Nouwen, which so beautifully captures the spirit of Advent. We hear in our Gospel this Sunday the names of many influential leaders in Israel during the time of Jesus. Many of those names are not well-known today from the annals of history, but the one name that stands out to us is John the Baptist. What is interesting is that John did not seek fame and fortune for himself, but he came out of the wilderness with a message that called people to repentance and that prepared a way for Jesus’ message and ministry. In the modern world, John’s message is to reach our busy lives to help us prepare a path for Jesus in the midst of our reality. May this message touch our hearts this morning in this time of preparation and waiting. May we use this time of Advent as we as we are still dealing with the reality of the pandemic, to renew ourselves on our journey of faith and to bring the conversion and transformation that we need right now in our lives.
Advent prayer by Father Henri Nouwen: Lord Jesus, Master of both the light and the darkness, send your Holy Spirit upon our preparations for Christmas. We who have so much to do seek quiet spaces to hear your voice each day. We who are anxious over many things look forward to your coming among us. We who are blessed in so many ways long for the complete joy of your kingdom. We whose hearts are heavy seek the joy of your presence. We are your people, walking in darkness, yet seeking the light. To you we say, “Come Lord Jesus!” AMEN.
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