A
few times a year, the monastery north of us in Mt. Angel offers a day of
reflection. It includes a few short
talks from one of the nuns, and several hours of quiet time. This past week I took a friend and we joined
in. I came away with a few new ways at
looking at some of my issues and questions, along with a lighter heart and a more
rested spirit.
One
talk focused on preparing for the birth of Jesus during the Advent Season. I started to think about all that this season
usually entails - preparing special meals, Christmas parties, choosing gifts and
decorating the house among other things.
It always is a time when I really feel that need to take control of my
schedule since every minute can be busy with activity.
...Instead of focusing on physical preparation, focus on spiritual preparation.
...Instead of planning every moment, be open and receptive to how God chooses to show up in my moments.
...Instead of worrying whether I’ve checked everything off the list and put every decoration in place, be alert to God’s surprises, delays, and plans.
This
certainly is the year to take this message to heart. For many weeks, Bruce has been working on
refinishing our dining/living room floor.
It’s a big job and has been much more involved and time consuming than
we expected. Our son, his fiancé, and
her little boy are arriving here in two weeks, with their wedding a week later. And we are not ready – yet.
Some
days I get anxious about the “doing”, because this is the season of doing. The morning at Mt. Angel reminded me again to
focus on God’s presence, and to be receptive to whatever He has for me each day.
This
is the way to prepare for the birth of Jesus: to joyfully experience being in
the presence of Almighty God.
Oh come let us
adore Him – Christ the Lord.
-
Julie
