The word Advent is derived from the Latin word which means coming. We wait and anticipate the coming of our Lord. Advent is a time of renewal and new birth. A time when many of us decide to make a fresh start. A former pastor of ours, who is giving a mission at a local parish, celebrated Mass yesterday -- the second Sunday of Advent. Making a fresh start was very much a part of his homily.

Sometimes we get absorbed into the hustle and bustle of the of the holiday season, but as we wait for the coming of our Lord it is the perfect time to contemplate a fresh start in our own lives. Perhaps you've always wanted to get more involved in parish life - join a new ministry. Or add more prayer into your daily life. Or simply spend more quiet time with the Lord. Maybe you need to re-evaluate your own life goals. Are the things that currently take up your time in line with the goals you've set for yourself? Are there things you wish you had time for but don't? If there are, what changes could you make to insure you do have time for the things that matter to you?

As we are filled with anticipation of Christ's birth, it is a great time to evaluate the joy our own lives. Joy is something that cannot come from outside - it comes from within. Joy is internal. Are there things in your life that you are allowing to get in the way of your own joy? Sometimes it's easy to say if only... if only I had the perfect job or if only my health was better. Are you allowing external things to stand in your way of joy? If so, what will help you break those barriers and allow joy to fill your heart once again?

Advent is the perfect time to reflect on the direction of your own life. Are you where you want to be now? If not, what can you do to get there? What steps do you need to take?

For further Advent reflections please see my previous articles:

Advent Prayer
Advent - A Time to Wait, A Time to Prepare
Interesting Advent Facts

Advent and Christmas Wisdom from St. Francis of Assisi -- Buy from Amazon

Peace in Christ,
© Melissa Knoblett-Aman