But as the calendar year begins to draw to a close, a new year begins. For us and all others who call themselves Christian, today begins a new year. Today is the first day of a new Christian year. Today is the first Sunday of Advent. In my own life, Advent represents something of a paradox.
Advent is a season of preparation, contemplation, waiting, and silence.
It is a time when we are called to be still and to contemplate the darkness that is a part of each and every one of our lives. With Advent also comes a sense of hope. During Advent, we wait upon the Light. We await the coming of our Lord into this world. We await the arrival of this small baby in whom our hopes, fears, dreams, and aspirations are all intertwined.