Advent Journey

We trudge along,

the daily grind

keeping us locked in

to the ways the world wants.

The seasons change,

the days grow short,

the nights linger on,

we stumble through.

A small light appears

then another shines

soon another appears

the path is not so dark.

The path has a name,

it is Advent,

we enter in

embracing light by light.

Embracing this light

requires waiting and patience

to kindle it more;

enflaming it within.

Advent light:

the armor I put on

strengthening me;

calming my soul.

Awakening me more

to the brilliance of

the Light of Lights

desiring to be born in me.

The journey need not be

a trudge; an aimless way,

rather purposeful steps

must be my way.

Step by step,

with light in hand,

hope builds at my core

on this way I must go.

The invitation comes each year

it is mine to choose

how will I walk

this Advent path?

With works of darkness

or by wearing light?

With greedy hoarding

or free generosity?

With endless tasks

or expectant hope?

With swords and shields

or determined plowshares?

With proud self-will

or a humble trust?

With worldly ways

or “God’s will be done?”

The sacred journey

climbing each day,

God ahead of us,

God behind us and with us.

A step ahead,

light in hand,

rejoicing for the coming kingdom:

O Come O Come Emmanuel!

Welcome Advent Time!

“Come let us walk in the light of the Lord.”

-inspired by the “Growing in Hope” Advent Retreat

at Mount St. Francis Retreat Centre

and Isaiah 2:1-5