Transcript of audio:
For Christians, Advent is a season of hope and preparation for celebrating the first coming of Christ at Bethlehem and his second coming at the end of time.
Our readings this week from the first Sunday of Advent can help us prepare and better focus on the true meaning of the season.
We are reminded that life, in particular at this time of year, can be filled with all kinds of anxieties. Family issues. The pressures of work. Busy schedules. These anxieties can distract us from what truly enhances our lives – knowing God's love for us and loving one another as God loves us.
In the Gospel, Jesus warns us not to let our hearts become heavy as we prepare to celebrate His coming.
So instead of letting the anxieties overwhelm us, let them serve as a wake up call to redirect our focus back to God, and, especially, to the gift we ourselves can be for others.
