Advent 2

Holy Days and Holidays 

  

   

"Picture an imaginary Christmas tree representing Christ at the center of your life.  How would you want to decorate it? Try hanging on it's branches not only your victories, the things you are most proud of, but also the faults and problems that Christ has helped you with. If you were to include pictures of people, whose pictures would you hang there first?"

Albert Holtz, O.S.B.

Albert Holtz is a monk of Newark Abbey in Newark, New Jersey.  He works in his monastery's inner-city prep school, teaching courses in Christian Scriptures and is a retreat master for Benedictine communities around the United States.  He has written a daily reflection book for Advent.  "From Holidays To Holy Days, A Benedictine Walk through Advent."  

As a Priest in the Episcopal Church I find myself being called to preach and teach the importance of Advent and Christmas.  As a woman in the world I love the festivities and joyful celebrations that are all part of this season.  Over the years I have had times of feeling guilty about really loving all the aspects of Christmas.  Not because I think it needs to be a penitential season, or a mini lent, but because some people of faith really have trouble with any secular aspects to the season.  

Without doubt, the birth of Jesus, the anticipation of the light coming through the darkness, is the most significant reason for Advent and Christmas.  Albert Holtz speaks of living in the world that celebrates Christmas in many different ways.  He walks through the streets of Newark, New Jersey and looks for images that call him to reflect on his faith.  I love this.  As a Christian woman, but more importantly as a person that loves God, I long to be in the world, to be part of the life that surrounds us.  When we shun others, we  are quickly separated and judgmental.  We are alone .

Jesus comes to be with us in our lives.  We are called to be with each other, to love our neighbor as ourselves.  We are called out in the world.  God is most able to work in our lives, and the Gospel is most able to be lived out in the world, when we are in relationship, when we are in the world.  How are you in the world?  What are some ways you live out your faith in the world?

Many of us are decorating our homes, hanging ornaments that are special and bring back memories.  For some this is a lonely or painful time of year.  For some a special baking project brings back memories of years past.  For others hearing the knock at the door and having someone offer a plate of goodies is the light in the darkness of that day.  

I offer the reflection above as an opportunity to reflect on a  Christmas tree.  This can be the tree in your home, the beautiful tree at the front of the Church, or maybe one lit in the center of your community.  The central question is how has Jesus been present in your life?  

It is with joy and excitement that I lean into this season.  Let us be playful and thankful as we await the birth of renewed love and hope in our lives.   

Waiting expectantly, 

Rev. Sue Poulin