I belong to a liturgical church. When we get together, we remember part of our story and we share a meal.
Our liturgical year begins with a season called Advent that grows and gains momentum during the days before Christmas.
Advent is a season of anticipation and preparation. Advent is finding the Sacred in the Everyday. Advent is finding the Time. Advent is finding Light in the Darkness.
The shiny lights and joyful sounds, flavors and aromas, of Christmas can distract us. It is easy for the anticipation to divert us from the preparation. We want the gratification without being ready.
Advent is more quiet and reflective than the impending Christmas.
Advent is where we look into the darkness to see the approaching light. Advent is when we listen to the silence. Advent is time to wait and anticipate, remembering what we value most.
Advent is gazing out across the desert sand to see the footprints the wind has swept away. Advent is watching the waves of the ocean to recognize the footprints that have been washed out. Advent is sitting by the fire, looking out the window at the snow to remember the footprints that have brought us here.
The way we walk is filled with footprints. They are our own, as well as those of the people we care about the most. The footprints of our mentors, our friends, our families, the people who inspire us and the people we tend to avoid. Children, elders, companions, people who make me laugh, people who have brought me to tears; so many footprints to remember.
My Advent includes your footprints, those of the people of my liturgical church, and everyone whose life has shaped mine.
Whose footprints do you see today?
How do you anticipate and prepare?
[Image by Adrian Dressler]
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