Advent Prayers

The theme of the Advent season is joyous preparation, waiting and watching for the signs of grace, preparing for the birth of the Christ Child, and for the re-birth of the sun. The turning point of solstice is near- this is a time of light born out of the darkness, but only the very beginning, not anything complete. I can feel my own tiny inner growing- a flicker of compassion, a butterfly of creativity, a sprout of wisdom.

When I observe advent well, I find that I am now mostly prepared for this final week- my house is fairly clean, shopping is almost finished, and the cupboards are filled with delectable food. I need to complete only a few finishing touches.

I need also to keep my focus on the Spirit of Love that guides me.

Agenda This Week:
1. Advent Prayers:

• Each morning as I wake, pause to take a slow breath, and center on Spirit. Stay in this gentle meditation as I get dressed, and move through my morning. 
• Sit every morning for a few minutes of silence. I like to sit by the heater as I drink my coffee, and simply practice feeling the presence of Love-- breath love in and send love out.
• Send prayers to others. Pray that God’s love and protection will reach out and surround my loved ones, and all the people of the world. 
• Remember to give thanks. 
• Listen for guidance.

O sweet Child of Bethlehem,
grant that we may share with all our hearts
in this profound mystery of Christmas.
Put into the hearts of men and women this peace
for which they sometimes seek so desperately
and which you alone can give to them.
Help them to know one another better,
and to live as brothers and sisters,
children of the same Father.
Reveal to them also your beauty, holiness and purity.
Awaken in their hearts
love and gratitude for your infinite goodness.
Join them all together in your love.
And give us your heavenly peace. Amen.

(Pope John XXIII)