Advent is a time of waiting and for many people it's a time to reflect
on what Mary must have experienced as she waited for the birth of this
unusual child.
You may never have
been pregnant or lived with someone who was, but put yourself in her
place for a while. Consider what it would have been like to have a new
life growing within you. And reflect on what new is growing within you
this season of Advent.
What new concern
is growing for the people around you? What new burden is on your heart
for the woes of the world? What new possibility do you see emerging in
the world around you, and how might you be part of that?
Advent is a
quieter time of the year in the Church's understanding. It's a time to
be still and listen, listen deep within to what is growing, ready to
emerge into new life.
And as the season
for the birth of the Christ Child arrives, I would encourage you to
consider how you yourself will be present in the world in a new way this
year. How will you give evidence of love incarnate to the world around
you?
I pray that you have a blessed and joyful and peace-filled Advent. God be with you.
Presiding Bishop Katharine Jefferts Schori
Click here for the Presiding Bishop's message in Spanish.
