Today marks the first day of the beginning of a new liturgical year. As it ends, I can only thank the Lord our God for all the love and graces He has bestowed upon me and those around me.
Today is a new day! This is also a special day for me, as it marks my first Advent as a Catholic. It also marks the first time my family and I celebrate it in a spiritually meaningful way – full of joy in God’s embrace.
It is a time for us to prepare spiritually as we wait upon Jesus – for the return of Jesus Christ. It is a time to recall His humanity and divinity. We are reminded of His humble birth, for the world (inn) was not prepared for His arrival. It is a time for reflection as we ready ourselves with HOPE, because God is faithful.
We pray for the conversion for those trapped in our secular world as we recall the prophets of old:
Repent for the kingdom of Heaven is at hand.
John the Baptist (Matthew 3:2)
Further Meditation
- Hope: Isaiah 11:1-3; John 1:14-18; Matthew 24:30-35; Titus 2:11-14
- Prophets: Isaiah 7:14; Isaiah 9:2-7
Our Hope comes from God!
1st Sunday (Hope / Prophets): Purple candle
2nd Sunday (Peace / Angels): Purple candle
3rd Sunday (Joy / Shepherds): Pink candle
4th Sunday (Love / Magi): Purple candle
Christmas Day (Birth of Jesus!): White candle (the Christ candle)
Today and as we head into a new week, let’s light a purple candle or wear something purple and reflect on HOPE and pray:
Dear Jesus, you are the hope of our world. Help us to slow down and turn off all the white noise around us. Help us to mindfully and quietly listen to your voice, and to focus on what’s really important. We place our hope and trust in you as we prepare our hearts to celebrate your birth on Christmas. Amen.
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Be Inspired! 