Friday of the Second Week of Advent

Today's Readings

“Those who follow you, Lord, will have the light of life.”

Sometimes the hardest thing to do is listen and follow. We are often so distracted by our jobs, our phones, the news, social media, and our thoughts. This list goes on. It’s so hard to listen (and even follow) when there is so much noise and distraction everywhere we go. The beauty of Advent is that we are waiting for someone to welcome into our homes and hearts. During this time we are asked to prepare, listen, and follow. As someone who complains A LOT, listening and following can be so difficult. Oftentimes, I find myself with my arms crossed, sulking at the new task I have been given or saddened by an accident I see on the news. I get so distracted by my own sadness that I forget that a baby was born to redeem this world. Am I listening? Am I following? Many times it is hard to tell. However, whether I am paying attention or not, the Lord comes each and every time.

The light of life can be present every single day if we just trust, listen and follow. My prayer is to grow in this trust and to make space in my heart to listen and follow. When He comes, I want to go and meet Him, with open arms. I pray that you may do the same. This Advent, let us listen and do our best to follow reality. We are called to be trees near running water, with leaves that never fade. Imagine a tree that is always green and full of life. This is the light of life that Advent can bring again in a world full of distraction.

Winnie Arzu, SFC '14