Below is an Advent prayer by Father Henri Nouwen, which so beautifully captures the spirit of this holy season of Advent. We hear in our Gospel this Sunday the last of the prophets of Ancient Israel, John the Baptist. John did not seek fame and fortune for himself, but he came out of the wilderness with a message that called the people to repentance and that prepared a way for Jesus’ message and ministry. In the modern world today, John’s message is to reach our busy lives to help us prepare a path for Jesus in the reality of life. In this time of preparation and waiting, may this message touch our hearts today. May we use this time of Advent as we as we are still dealing with such a challenging reality in our world today, where there is so much anger, division, violence, and discord everywhere we turn. May we use this Advent season 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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