Each week I write letters for my parishioners based upon the scriptures. They include doctrinal themes applicable to Roman Catholics. However, my presentation of the letters attempt to reach broader audiences allowing each person to reflect for themselves how the truths contained in the letter apply. I base my assumption on the premise that Catholicism can never be “imposed” but only “proposed.” And so this being said, I begin my reflection.
For me, Advent is one of the two yearly retreat periods leading up to cosmic events, namely Christmas and Easter. Advent leads us into Christmas and Lent leads us into Easter. Another way of saying this might be, seasons that lead us to the Birth and Resurrection of Christ.
Further reflection takes us to a deeper level: seasons that lead us to our own personal “rebirths” in both instances. For the present moment, I will concentrate on the Advent season.
We already fully understand the concept of “preparation” for the season of Christmas and the need to shop for gifts for the ones that we love. But do we ever take the time to reflect on the process of preparation? Many reflect upon the end result: Christmas. Society has upheld Christmas as a national holiday and we refer to the “Christmas Season.” But just what are we celebrating?
For some its a celebration of family and friends and a season of joy and peace where we not only wish eachother well but blessings in the New Year. For others it’s the celebration of the birth of our Lord Jesus Christ. A well balanced Christmas merges these concepts into one because both are necessary for a Christian.
However, our preparations may vary depending upon our reason for the season. If it is solely good-will to all mankind and showing that through gifts, then our preparations are usually secular and limited to shopping and decorations. If our reason is Christ, then our preparations need to be adapted to include a season to ready ourselves for His coming among us, both presently and at the end of world.
This type of preparation can be difficult since it involves a change of heart, disposition, and demeanor. However, this is my point. I believe that this type of preparation aids us in the secular expression. The outward tasks of shopping, decorating, singing, etc., are enhanced by the inner transformation of the heart. The opposite could be true in some sense; namely, once we’re in the “spirit” of the season, it could lead us to become more “God-like.” However, I don’t bank on it, particularly since Christmas for many seems to be under attack by some in our country. That perhaps will be another discussion point as Christmas draws nearer.
For now, I will end inviting you to respond. Remember, the goal is reflection and dialogue. No need to attack personal opinions.
Fr. Bob
