Each year the first Sunday of Advent focuses our attention on the second coming of Christ as we prepare to celebrate the first coming of Christ during the Christmas season. The introduction to the Roman Missal describes Advent as “a period of devout and expectant delight.”
I am reminded of one of my high school teachers who spoke of the three eras of Christ as history, mystery, and majesty. Christ was born into our human history two millennia ago. Christ is present and active in mystery today, including in our experience of the Eucharist. Christ will come in glory and majesty for the rest of eternity. On this first Sunday of Advent we are exhorted to be attentive and watchful. Christ comes to us again and again and in varied ways. Realizing this grace lifts up our minds and hearts in joyful praise.
How will this Advent season foster expectant delight in you? How can you bring this Advent spirit to others?