MT 11: 2-11
Be patient. Be prepared.
And, have a plan.
The “P’s” have it for me. The readings for today as well as the
opportunities I’ve been given recently have caused me to hit “Pause”. To participate in a retreat held on campus
gave me time to think, reflect, and pray in community with others. Listening to a Sunday homily that pointed out
the differences between having a plan and being prepared as the birth of Christ
approaches also caused me to pause. Then
reading and reviewing the readings for today—Wow!
Taken collectively, I was left with some clear priorities about what I
not only need to do but want to do this Advent season to really make it special
and for me to be excited about Christmas—to truly celebrate the birth of
Christ. I’m a planner, so I know I will
have gifts wrapped, cookies baked, house decorated—even a tad too much, and
cards sent. Check. Check.
Check. Check—the outward tasks
identified and completed.
However, am I really going to be prepared for Christmas? Will I take the time to be still, to be
silent, and to listen to the word of God, to open my heart and soul to the
wonders of this season? Will I reflect
on my actions, thoughts, and feelings regarding how I accept, respect, and
honor others and what they bring to my life?
By all outward signs, I may be ready for Christmas. Internally—spiritually, emotionally,
mentally—am I prepared to truly rejoice with a full heart and soul within
myself and with others in the miracle of the season? I want to spend my time practicing patience,
sitting still, reading and reflecting on the readings of each day, talking with
others focusing only on what they have to say.
Be
patient brothers and sisters….
You
too must be patient.
Do
not complain, brothers and sisters, about one another, that you may not be
judged.
Take
as an example of hardship and patience….
These quotes from today’s readings flow and build upon one
another. They are calling me to quiet my
being, be strong, fear not, and believe in Him who is coming to save us. Surely, I can do my part and plan my time and prepare myself for His coming and to
show grace and patience to all with whom I am fortunate enough to live, play,
and work….
Jill Carnaghi is Assistant Vice President in the Division of Student Development.
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