Putting the vent back in Advent
Advent is upon us, and I’m just not feeling it this year. Granted, it is only the first week, but I’m not sure I can muster up all the mystery and purple and candles again this year.
On Sunday I heard myself say in my sermon something about making our hearts ready to receive the Christ Child this season. I said it as I have said it every Advent for the last 21 years. And later while I was doing the dishes I realized that I haven’t the foggiest idea what I mean by that.
Every liturgical season has its church-speak. Some of my favorites: Transfiguration, when he was “changed from glory into glory.” Easter as we leave the cross and face the beauty of the empty tomb. Pentecost, when God set our hearts on fire. Lent, as we make our way to Calvary/Golgotha/the cross. And Advent, when we prepare our hearts to receive the Little Lord Jesus.
