An Advent Reflection

Advent is the liturgical period leading up to the feast of Christmas.

A driving dynamic of Advent is hope.  If we had nothing to hope for,
there would be no point to this season.  The original hope was for a
child to be born who would bring justice and peace to the world and
who would heal the rift between humanity and God.  But that larger
hope is filled with smaller ones—daily hopes that can shape us as people.

Some hopes will shape our relationships.  The Christ Child grew to be a
man who embodied forgiveness and generosity.  A life of hope sees
the good in others, is patient with their shortcomings, and tenaciously
envisions them at their best.

Some hopes will shape our work.  The promised Messiah proclaimed
God’s realm of justice and mercy.  No matter what jobs we do or work
positions we hold, as hopeful people we maintain fairness and integrity
as short-term and long-term goals.  We make our work matter for the
common good.

Some hopes will shape our character.  Jesus exemplified hope that cultivates
true freedom.  A hopeful person cannot continue in anxiety, grasping,
need for control, and habitual anger.

How is hope visible in your life?
Where has it failed?

 

– Vinita Hampton Wright, IPS Student, Loyola Press Blogs