The four weeks of Advent are a time to reflect on the birth of Christ at Christmas, the coming of Christ at the end of time, and the life of Christ in our own souls.
Keeping a watchful Advent reminds us to live in expectation of God's movement in and through every moment of our days. Amidst the distractions of the holidays, Advent invites us to be intentional about seeking the holiness that resides within us all.
This Advent, our weekly Reflections will focus on explorefaith's many resources for guiding your inward and outward journey of faith. It is our hope that these readings will help you open your heart to God's presence while you wait with hopeful expectation for coming of Emmanuel.
Each day explorefaith provides you and thousands of others around the globe with open-minded, accessible resources to draw you closer to God's love. Our highest hope is that with every visit to our Web site, you find something that deepens and enriches your unfolding journey of faith.
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Here is Your God
Say to those who are of a fearful heart, "Be strong, do not fear." Here is your God. -Isaiah 35:4a
In the game of life we are faced with all kinds of choices and sets of rules that are unveiled when we step up to the plate. No matter what is thrown our way, we can choose to move quickly and decisively or wait patiently for greater revelation of God's divine plan.
Even in those moments when we fail to be all that we can be, God never turns away from us. God's love and care for us are unfailing, so we can never really lose in the game of life.
Gracious God, help us to make the right decisions even when we are fearful. Help us stay strong even while we must endure the consequences of those decisions.
Prayer for When Waiting Takes Too Long
Gracious God,
Help me find waiting to be the friend that invites me into the spaciousness of stillness. Give me the grace to refrain from rushing ahead in order to bring waiting to an end. Instead, let me find joy in the waiting itself.
To experience the meaning of this Holy Season requires imagination, a sense of wonder and a willingness to risk in order to become partners with God in the New Creation. The days of Advent can be an opportunity for us not only for learning but for experiencing the joy of sharing in the work God is doing in the world.
