Advent 2020 is upon us.  The end of a year like no other. The hope of things to come. The preparations for celebrating the Christmas holiday. We hear that Advent is a season of waiting. Recently, I heard the challenge to listen deeply. As I engage in this Advent waiting, I am drawn to this idea of listening deeply—to others, to myself, to life.

I encourage us to take some time and ask God what that phrase means for each of us. For me, I know listening involves paying close attention to life as it presents itself moment by moment. I’m called to not resist life but allow God to open my spiritual eyes and to heal my blind spots. This type of listening calls for less words and more silence.  In keeping with that spirit, this month my only words are to challenge each of us to sit with the phrase listen deeply, and ask God to lead and guide us along that path as we finish out 2020.

I leave you with two of my favorite Advent traditions—a poem and a prayer. The poem is God’s invitation to us, and the prayer is our response—our invitation to God.

OPEN THE DOOR
When you step over
The threshold of Christmas
There’s a mystery
For you to explore.
A story.
A message.
Rich beauty.
The music of color and love.
There’s a sense
Of the Creator’s presence.
The wonder of childlike joy.
The texture of worship.
The power of peace.
Turn the handle
And open the door.
 —Greg Asimakoupoulos

Lord Jesus, 
Master of both the light and the darkness, Send your Holy Spirit upon our preparations for Christmas. 
We who have so much to do seek quiet spaces to hear your voice each day. 
We who are anxious over many things look forward to your coming among us. 
We who are blessed in so many ways long for the complete joy of your kingdom. 
We whose hearts are heavy seek the joy of your presence. 
We are your people, walking in darkness, yet seeking the light. 
To you we say, “Come Lord Jesus!”  Amen. 
—Henri Nouwen

As we encounter dazzling Christmas lights everywhere, may we be reminded to seek the natural light of God, the Divine, and listen deeply.

God bless you.