We are now in Advent, a time of watching and waiting for the birth of Christ in our hearts and world.

I find myself slowing down; I want to stop and consider the sky, whether blue or grey, and the evergreens against the sky, now swaying with the breeze, and then sometimes blanketed with the pure white snow.

I’m inclined, thus, to do less, and feel, and write, and read, and pray, more.

I’m asking now, What can this New England winter season and the church year season of Advent teach us about ourselves, nature, the life of the spirit? How can the (now cold) waters of the lake baptize our life in winter Advent?

Can our instinct to slow down unfetter contemplative noticing of inexpressible longings for hoped-for birth?

Although Advent thoughts and feelings may be inward, soul-directed, they can never be private. I am sure of that. They deserve to be shared.

Hoping for the birth of Jesus Christ in the world and in our hearts is attendant on freedom (Mary’s “Yes”) and communal longing. A Messiah was long hoped for.

What do you long and hope for? What/who longs and hopes for your attention and care?  

Blessings in Advent, Nancy