Archives: December 2005

On May 8, 1373 a young English woman lie dying. The woman, Julian of Norwich, remembered praying for a revelation about God's true nature. Before the dawn she had a series of what she called “showings.” She recovered and wrote down her conversations with God.

Julian wrote: “I desired to know our Lord's meaning in all things. He answered me and said: “Wouldst thou learn thou Lord's meaning? Learn it well. Love was His meaning. Who showed it thee? Love. What showed He thee? Love. Why did He show it thee? For love. Keep thyself in that love and thou shalt know and see more of the same.”

As we entered into this season of Advent, a time of increased activity and stress, it is time for us to intentionally slow down, and wrap ourselves in the love God has shown for each one of us. Let me suggest that a few changes in your routine might help.

First, get up thirty minutes earlier and go to bed an hour and a half earlier. Use the extra morning time to just sit and be silent with God and let God's love flow over you before you begin the day. Let the extra sleep be a gift for all you did during the day.

Second, visit to your crèche set and look at the people gather around the manager. Remember each day that holy night and let God speak to you about what you see.

Third, watch television less and exercise and more. Take a walk each day. Park at the far ends of a parking lot and walk rather than drive around looking for a closer parking space. A visit to the library looking for books with Christmas themes should be on your list. I personally like to read some of the children's books including The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe.

Fourth, as you send out Christmas cards send them with a prayer for the recipients. Also pray before you purchase an item you are going to give for a gift and as you wrap the gift pray again for the person who will receive it.

Fifth, come to church early and just sit with God for an extra few moments. Wonder about God's unconditional love for you.

Sixth, attend the Christmas pageant on December 18 th at 4:00 p.m. Allow God to speak to you through the enactment of that sacred mystery.

Seventh, as you sing the hymns, think about the words you are singing. Enjoy the music of the season.

As Julian wrote: “All shall be well, and all manner of things shall be well, and all will be well.”

 

                                                      Fr. Ken †  

Archive 12- 2005