As we begin the Advent season, it is interesting that our scripture readings speak of the end of time.  In Matthew’s gospel, we are reminded to stand erect, to raise our heads, to not become drowsy or complacent, and to keep our faith alive and active as we face the trials and tribulations of life.  Despite the somber tone of our gospel reading, the underlying message is to not be afraid, to trust that Jesus is with us, no matter what we encounter in life.
 
Advent is a season of joyful hope, a time for us to renew our faith, taking account of where we’ve been and discerning as to where it is we want to go, trusting that God will lead us forward.  Advent is not a time for us to dwell on the mistakes we’ve made or decisions we regret, but rather, it is a time for us to move forward, trusting that God is with us, giving us hope.   
 
St Paul encourages us to have hearts “confirmed in holiness”, believing that Jesus will help set us free from all those things that prevent us from being holy.  One way to define holy is, “belonging to or associated with a divine power; sacred.”   We are God’s beloved, and that alone makes us holy.  However, sometimes we forget that we are holy and stumble as we journey in faith.  A good question for us to ponder this Advent season is what is keeping us from believing in our innate holiness and honoring that holiness as we face the challenges of life.
 
During these four short weeks of Advent, nestled in one of the busiest times of the year, we are invited to reflect upon what it means to be God’s beloved.  When we truly believe that we are God’s beloved, we learn to let go and trust that God is with us in the here and now.  My friends, hope does not disappoint!  May this Advent season be a blessed time for each of us.
 
May God bless you and your loved ones today, tomorrow, and forever more.
 
Fr. Harry