I am silent...and expectant

 

How silently, 
how silently 
the wondrous gift is given. 

I would be silent now, 
Lord, 
and expectant... 
        that I may receive 
                the gift I need, 
                        so I may become 
                                the gifts others need. 

                                                           

                                                from Guerrillas of Grace by Ted Loder

 

 

 

Dear Community of Saint Joseph’s;

 

In the Advent Prayer by Ted Loder he speaks of the need for silence during this time of waiting.  I know that when I speak on Sunday of the need for silence and reflection in our lives, most of you wonder how that can be possible.  Yet we always seem to find time for what we deem to be truly important.  And while I understand that the season of Advent is a crushingly busy time of purchasing and wrapping presents, menu planning and  greeting cards.  However, it is possible to create some time for simple periods of silence, prayerful listening and expressions of gratitude. 

 

The season of Advent is meant to be a retreat time. 

 

Consider ways in which you might simplify your Christmas and relieve the stress beforehand.  Ultimately, what good are   lavish gifts and elaborate feasts if one has made everyone miserable in the process? 

 

Be good to yourself these weeks before Christmas and give to your friends and family the precious gift of your kindness and undivided attention and see if on Christmas day you are not a happier,

                                                more peaceful,

                                                            more grateful person.

 

 

 

 

 

Father Matt Pennington

Pastor

 

(Please join us on Fridays December 14 and  21 at 7:00 in the church for an evening of quiet Advent mediations.)