I am ashamed to say that it took me many years to fully acknowledge and appreciate the season of Advent. But now, with a less hectic life style and more time to actually ‘live in the moment’, I have come to realize over the last few years that Advent is my favorite season in the liturgical year. I have realized that it is not just the four weeks we have to get ready for Christmas, but a time to relax and reflect on the year that has almost passed and to begin to anticipate what the new year ahead might bring. With Autumn waning and Winter approaching it is the perfect time for this.In light of Advent promoting in us, anticipation for Christmas, for the last few years I have even used the weeks in Advent to determine the decorating of my house for Christmas. For example, four candles go into the bow window on the first Sunday, filling all the other windows with candles by the second Sunday, and so on until the tree goes up on the final Sunday.
So all this, as well as four Sundays filled with beautiful liturgy, Bible readings and special Advent music, which are, of course, the most important things that make Advent so special. It is, after all a time of hope, anticipation, joy and love! How can it not be my favorite!
Lee Mackie
