Fears and Tears

In Advent, Christians relive a dual impulse of the spirit; on one hand, they raise their eyes towards the final destination of their pilgrimage through history, which is the glorious return of the Lord Jesus; on the other, remembering with emotion His birth in Bethlehem, they kneel before the crib.” Pope Benedict XVI

The Lord gave me a great gift this week; it is peace. A peace overtook me, and I felt a calm and stillness in my body and soul. It is a peace that I still feel. What a wonderful thing to experience this second week of Advent.

I felt a great joy for our local Archdiocese, as seven men were ordained to the order of the Permanent Diaconate this past weekend. This beautiful day fell near the sixth anniversary of my husband’s yes to the Lord and his ordination as a Deacon.

The outpouring of the Holy Spirit could be felt by all in attendance, and I was carried away by the beautiful music, the scripture readings and the promises proclaimed by the seven men. All this in the beautiful backdrop of the Cathedral, which naturally beckons one’s gaze to Heaven.

The journey is not easy, and it requires much sacrifice along with great faith. It is a journey of self-discovery, prayer and persistence. This special vocation is a yes to God in love and service.

I am grateful to God for the gift of peace, because I know that Jesus is near. A most blessed Advent, as we draw closer to the Lord, who is the Prince of Peace. O Come, O Come, Emmanuel.

Advent is a journey towards Bethlehem, may we let ourselves be drawn by the light of God made man. Pope Francis