Advent is a

special time

Advent is a special time

by Fred Schaeffer, OFS

The focus of Advent is preparation for the coming of the Lord: both in commemoration of His Nativity and His coming again at the end of time. Though most Christians see this time of year as a part of the "Christmas Season," it isn't; the Christmas season does not begin until the first Mass at Christmas Eve. 
 
The mood of Advent is one of spiritual preparation, and the gaudy "Christmas" commercialism that surrounds it in the Western world should be overcome as much as possible. The singing of Christmas carols (which comes earlier and earlier each year), the talk of "Christmas" as a present reality, the decorated trees and the parties -- these things are "out of season" for Catholics; we should strive to keep the Season of Advent holy and penitential, always remembering, as they say, that "He is the reason for the Season."
 
Secular Franciscans, once called the “Order of Penitents,” can make their Advent Season very special in a very personal way. Penance must be filled with a spirit of gratitude and joy, not pessimism. Through the cross we share in Christ’s Resurrection. That’s a privilege he grants to those he loves.
 
We know that suffering, pain, disappointments and fatigue are a part of everyday life. St. Francis has shown us that these sufferings are an opportunity to share an intimacy with Jesus in His mission of salvation. So take this time of Advent, and really look for daily opportunities to share this intimacy with Jesus’ suffering. St. Francis of Assisi is such a great inspiration when it comes to penance. Let’s make sure that we recognize Advent for what it really is, a time of preparation for the coming of Our Lord. Some people believe that the Christmas season begins around Thanksgiving... that’s a worldly perception, and Franciscans know better than that. Shove all this worldliness to the sidelines, and go on with the real preparation for Christmas.

Advent is a great time to practice daily conversion; for Franciscans however, this is something we should be doing every day of the year. After all, we strive for perfection and that takes a great deal of daily effort. Spiritual reading helps us tremendously in keeping us going in the right direction.

Fred Schaeffer, OFS
11/20/2023 bc333

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