Refocusing

‘When we become completely preoccupied with the mystery of the Incarnation this feast will be more peaceful, more meaningful, and it will change us.... we establish a focus on ... Jesus, the true reason for the season...’ (Sarah Metts)

The marking of the season of Advent goes back many, many centuries. While it is not certain just when it began, it was known to be observed from as early as 480 AD.

In more recent times, the dominant themes of the season have turned to preparation, anticipation and hope. But originally Advent was a penitential season which had a period of fasting associated with it, known as the Nativity Fast or the Fast of December.

While some of the more penitential dimensions to the season may have developed and evolved, the emphasis on refocusing remains one of importance and value.

This is a time when we can look once again at our own lives, priorities and values; a time to reflect on what is really important; a time to challenge ourselves anew; a time to prepare to receive the Christ Child once again into the lowly manger of our hearts.

A time for refocusing.

So perhaps today we will have a short time to pause and gaze on the Christ Child, the Babe of Bethlehem laid in the Manger, and allow our lives to focus again on him, on his majesty concealed in meekness, his divinity embodied in flesh, his riches clothed in poverty.

And as we focus our gaze on him, so may our lives and our living be refocused to be shaped by his values.