Pastoral Ministries / Gabriela Ross
Preparing for Advent in a time of uncertainty
2020 is coming to a close. While we may take a moment to breathe a much-needed sigh of relief, there is prudence to having patience and seeing our journey through. When we hurry through the messy seasons of life, we may lose sight of the mission God has for us, and the lesson he wants us to learn. Can we take a spiritual time-out to pay attention?
This year in particular, we may be focused on the political situation of our times, since this is a presidential election year. We may be worried about health restrictions, and whether a new travel ban or quarantine ordinance will prevent us from gathering with loved ones for the holidays or attending Mass. There is a lot to be concerned about, and there is certainly a temptation to fear.
“But the angel said to them, ‘Do not be afraid; for see—I am bringing you good news of great joy for all the people: to you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, who is the Messiah, the Lord ’ ” (Lk 2:10-11).
Every Advent, we wait for the coming of the Lord. Like the Israelites who awaited the Messiah so many years ago, we prepare our hearts for the birth of the Christ Child. Our situation this year may not be ideal, but it was not ideal the year Jesus was born, either. There was a census ordered by the emperor, travel conditions were treacherous, and Mary was nine months pregnant. It was not a great time for a baby to be born. Yet Jesus came.
“For God so loved the world that he gave his only Son, so that everyone who believes in him may not perish but may have eternal life” (Jn 3:16). For God came that we might “have life and have it abundantly” (Jn 10:10).
When we are surrounded by the fear of material, social and spiritual scarcity, how do we live an abundant life, like the Scripture says? Here are a few ideas:
Pray—Reading the story of Jesus’ birth in Scripture and thinking about how he entered our messy humanity out of love for us, to save us, will certainly bear fruit during these difficult times. When our hearts are grieving, we may not want to think about the happy coming of our Messiah, but that is exactly when we need him the most. If you have little ones at home, try incorporating the tradition of the “Jesse Tree” that looks at the main characters of our salvation history that pointed the way to Jesus. Each day a short Scripture is read, and an ornament is hung to remind us that we are waiting for Jesus.
Give—It is difficult to wallow in our sorrows when our hands are busy helping others to carry their burdens. This year in particular, there are many families in need. Can you donate canned goods to a local food pantry or coats to a homeless shelter? Can you contribute financially to your parish that is fighting to keep the lights on with lower Mass attendance? Can your children look through their toys and give some away to children who are uncertain if they will receive gifts this Christmas?
Rejoice—“And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host, praising God and saying, ‘Glory to God in the highest heaven, and on Earth peace among those whom he favors!’… The shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all they had heard and seen…” (Lk 2:13-14, 20). No matter what the end of 2020 brings, we can be people of joy by thanking God for the good things he has done for us, both personally in the past year, and through the birth of his Son, Jesus, our Savior. Whether your home is bright and full or we find ourselves isolated once again, let us rejoice in the birth of our Savior and bring joy to the world that is so desperately in need of him.
(Gabriela Ross is the director of the archdiocesan Office of Marriage and Family Life. She can be reached at gross@archindy.org or 317-592-4007.) †