Daily Advent Meditations from St. Stephen's Episcopal Church
December 11, 2015 | II Advent, Friday
Ps 31, 35; Haggai 1:1-15, Rev. 2:18-29, Matt. 23:27-39
As we prepare for the arrival of Jesus in just a couple of weeks, how do we prepare our heart, mind, body and spirit for his coming?
 
As children excitedly prepare for Christmas, how do we eliminate the intense rush and hurry complete the "to-do list," a list that might include shopping, entertaining, or gift wrapping.
 
How do we slow down and stop rushing through these precious and humbling days of Advent? How do we enjoy moments of anticipation, reflection and the simple beauty of Advent/Christmas lights so we can keep this season "real" in our lives?
 
As we light our Advent wreath, we say, "God is with us." God is with us during the rush and hurry. But do we see him? Do we hear him? Do we slow the pace enough to know he is there? As we sit at the stoplight, overwhelmed and stressed, can we say a quick prayer--like, "God help me not rush through the day and see you in the midst. Take my to-do list and make it your to-do list. What's done will be done." He hears this prayer, you know.
 
Being intentional in our relationship with God, especially nowadays, is important. Waking up 15 minutes earlier before the entire house is alive can be your opportunity to sit, be still and feel God with you. Listening to an Advent devotional before leaving home for the day can prepare you for what lies ahead, knowing that God is with you.
 
My prayer for all of us is to NOT rush through these next 14 days... to give up our addiction to speed and perfection. Be in God's presence even just for a minute here, and another there. Embrace the rest and give thanks for the birth of Jesus and the hope, joy, peace and love that he can bring to our lives.

Greta Kidd