We start Advent not with dread or foreboding, but with joyful anticipation. It’s like welcoming into our homes a dear friend or relative whom we haven’t seen for a while. There’s probably a flurry of cleaning, grocery shopping and cooking—all done with delight. When we look forward to renewing a close relationship, the preparation isn’t a burdensome chore. It may be tiring, but it’s happy.
Jesus gives the disciples similar advice in today’s gospel: don’t be snoozing when an important visitor arrives. Be alert, awake, watchful as people are at an airport, searching the crowd for a beloved face.
How much more carefully we await the arrival of God. God is already with us, always and everywhere. Our Advent preparations highlight that presence, helping us become more aware. If we are lulled into anesthesia by busy schedules or overfamiliarity, Advent is the wake-up call. Look at what richness surrounds us! See how blessed we are! Do we look for God like the gospel gatekeeper, with a sharp eye? Or do we surrender our spirituality for the ersatz cheer of sales and malls?
One way of marking time that has been honored by Christians for centuries is the Advent wreath. Googling the phrase produces over 100,000 results—ways to buy one, make one, pray with one. This circle of pine with four candles nestled within can become the center for Advent prayer, reflection and song. It reminds us to pause, breathe deeply of its fragrance, remember what distinguishes this time of year.
Kathy Coffey 
Advent does come in the midst of getting prepared for winter, if you live in that area of the country and black Friday and shopping and more shopping. We must not forget however the so called, “Reason for the Season.” No it is not Santa Claus but God breaking through to say once and for all time, “this is how much I love your.” A love so incredible needed in the world today. Each of us must do our share to bring this, “too good to be true news” to those down trodden and lacking hope. God offers God’s love, but we must chose to receive it. All too often we feel undeserving, but that is not God telling us that for in having the courage to receive that love we are in fact made worthy.