Advent is a liturgical
season in the Catholic Church; it is the season that starts off the liturgical
year. The word Advent comes from the Latin word adventus, which means coming.
Advent is the time of the year where we anticipate the birth of Jesus as well
as the second coming. The beloved traditions of Advent such as the lighting the
Advent wreath, decorating the Christmas tree, watching Christmas movies, and
putting up Christmas decorations have always brought me such fond memories of
childhood. Advent is the first season in the liturgical year; I say it is the
season of new beginnings, a new start as Catholics.
The season of Advent always comes around with a beautiful
spirit of generosity amongst people. A spirit originating from the three Magi
giving our Lord gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh. A spirit continued by
Saint Nicholas of Myra, the actual Santa Claus, and continues today with all of
us who share the tradition of gift giving on Christmas day. People give gifts
to fathers, mothers, sons, daughters, nieces, nephews, brothers, sisters and
friends bringing everyone together.
The season of Advent seems to be the happiest time of
year for families. The parents think of their children and try to find the
perfect gift for each one of them. It fosters a mindset of selflessness, love,
and connectedness between family members. It is a time when the whole family tries
to get back together to be with each other for a little while. When we put
aside our differences, difficulties and forgive each other to begin again as a
happy family.
Advent is the season of the most happiness and joy
because it prepares us for Christmas. The happiness and joy that comes from
generosity, love, and togetherness embody the spirit of Advent. The joy that
flows from Advent, builds up to the high point of Christmas, which fits
wonderfully because we remember the greatest gift given to the world, our Lord
Jesus Christ, is what it is all about.
The spirit of Advent is the spirit of generosity,
togetherness, and joy. The new beginning of Advent each year reminds us to be
Christ-like and Christ centered. Why can’t the spirit of Advent continue
throughout the year? The spirit of generosity, togetherness, and joy all year
round doesn’t mean giving gifts for the whole year, it means always being ready
to lend a hand, to include others, and to be joyful realizing the fact that
Jesus Christ is Lord.
~ Brother Nicholas Martinez, OFM Cap
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