An Advent Reflection

During Advent we listen to the prophet Isaiah speak words of hope and comfort: “On this mountain, the Lord will destroy the veil that veils all peoples, the web that is woven over all nations.” A veil speaks to me of fine, sheer material. A web calls to mind a fragile, intricate design. Both require little effort to tear apart.

We speak at times of a fragile peace that unites us, a thin veil that separates us, or of a web in which we feel caught by our differences. The Advent season invites us to make our own the longing and hopes of God’s people for an end to divisions and injustice. We, too, desire that the thin veil separating people one from another be torn aside, revealing persons of every race, religion, color, and culture as sisters and brothers.

I recently received a holy card from a friend (author unknown). Through one small act at a time, we can begin to tear through the veil and the web that separate peoples and nations, families and communities, if we only take the time.

TAKE TIME

Take time to think

It is the source of all power.

Take time to play

It is the secret of perpetual youth.

Take time to read

It is the fountain of wisdom.

Take time to pray

It is the greatest power on earth.

Take time to love and be loved

It is a God-given privilege.

Take time to be friendly

It is the road to happiness.

Take time to laugh

It is the music of the soul.

Take time to give

It is too short a day to be selfish.

Take time to work

It is the price of success.

Take time to do charity

It is the key to heaven.

The Advent season is a time to slow down, notice others, consciously take time to think, play, read, pray, love and be loved, be friendly, laugh, share what we have, work hard, and reach out to others. We will then recognize the kingdom of God in our midst. Rejoice! The Lord is near.