Prayer

No Need to Wait…….

Last Sunday was the first Sunday of Advent. One of the themes that has been traditionally associated with Advent is waiting. Today’s reflection by Janet Schaeffler, OP explores this concept anew.

The science fiction film “The Arrival” tells the story of an astrophysicist whose passion is watching the stars, constantly waiting for a message from beyond.

Maybe this is a metaphor for how many Christians have approached Advent?

We don’t need to wait. God continually reaches out to us from beyond - as well as from within and all around. ‘The Arrival’ that comforts and challenges our lives takes place constantly as well as in Bethlehem 2,000 years ago.

We really don’t need to wait, for our God is always here. Rather than waiting, we need to increasingly watch. God is with us continually and constantly in the ordinary happenings of our everyday lives. Watching for the Lord means our eyes (and hearts) are wide open to the possibility - and reality - of God with us anytime, at all times, in any person, in every event.

Daily Practice:

At the end of the day, ask yourself: Where did I see and meet God today? 

As you go through these Advent days, let that question pervade your whole day: 

Where is God in this?

Advent Prayer:

Everyday God

Thank you for the wondrous ways you are a part of every corner of our lives. 

Deepen in us a constant awareness of your closeness, of your presence in all we meet, 

in everything that happens.

Help us be aware of your presence.

Amen.