Prepare for the Birth of Jesus: By Mary Wroblewski

This has been a world wind year of all things political with all the usual players running amuck and literally trying to rip our country apart from the inside out.  I pray a new era has dawned with common sense and UNITY ruling the day.

The month of December is the perfect time to come together as we approach the first Sunday of Advent on December 1st, in preparation and anticipation of the birth of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, and the beginning of a new liturgical season.  The first Sunday of Advent symbolizes HOPE (purple candle), the second Sunday, PEACE (purple candle), the third Sunday, JOY (pink candle) and the fourth Sunday, LOVE (purple candle). Traditionally families celebrate these Sundays with the lighting of a candle ensconced in the Advent Wreath.  A prayer is said when the candle is lit each Sunday leading up to Christmas.

There are different ways individuals and families may approach this, but whatever your tradition is, what’s most important, is that the candles remind us of the overflowing hope, peace, joy, and love that the birth of Jesus means for each and every one of us.  I cannot think of a more unifying message or experience for our country than preparing for the birth of Jesus. 

If you don’t use a particular prayer in your Advent tradition, consider using this prayer from Fr. Henri J.M. Nouwen: 

Lord Jesus, Master of both light and darkness, send Your Holy Spirit upon our preparation for Christmas.  We who have so much to do seek quiet spaces to hear Your voice each day.  We who are anxious over many things look forward to Your coming among us.  We who are blessed in so many ways long for the complete joy of Your Kingdom.  We whose hearts are heavy seek the joy of Your presence.  We are Your people, walking in darkness yet seeking the light.  To You, we say, “Come Lord Jesus!”

During this season of preparation and the birth of our Lord, let us unite in prayer for hope, peace, joy and love, and may the light of Christ be a beacon for all of us.  Merry Christmas Wayne County!