Reflection

Advent; the time when we prepare for the coming of Christ at Christmas. This time of year is both a winding down and a winding up. It’s about evaluating the year as it wanes, and planning for the year to come. This is a prayer and reflection about that hope we have for the future. It is a mindful hope. An intelligent hope. A hope grounded in justice, brought into focus by a vision of possibility. This reflection reminds us that a world of justice and peace is possible because, as told by the prophets, Jesus is coming to make all things possible. To remind us of this journey of hope, we can use an Advent Wreath. 

The Wreath symbolises the endless love God has for us. 

The Advent Wreath has 5 candles: 3 purple candles representing Hope, Peace and Love; 1 pink candle representing Joy; and the 5th candle, a white one, representing Jesus. 

This prayer and reflection focuses on the first candle which is also called the prophet’s candle. It reminds us of the ways Jesus’ coming was foretold in the scriptures. We are invited to watch and wait also, as all our ancestors before us have done. We are invited to do this with hope.

Prayer 

Loving Creator, Companion on the Journey, Spirit of Wisdom, Open my eyes; So that I see you in those who I encounter. Prepare my hands; So that I can receive the bread that is broken and share it with those who hunger for more. Break open my heart; So that I may live a life that is, of, and in this world. We ask this prayer, one with the Trinity who accompanies us on the journey, 

Amen.

St John Baptist De La Salle: Pray for us

St Aloysius: Pray for us

Live Jesus in our hearts: Forever