Advent Note from the Curate

TWELVE DAYS

As Anglicans persevering through Advent, we will want the full measure of Christmastide. Yes, indeed: all twelve days and all twelve nights, and not a minute less. Many have found that Advent’s patient expectancy converts a potentially frantic and frenetic time into one of calm and even serenity. Imagine, while so many others careen through these days like a “Wii” gone wild, Advent Anglicans look within, anticipating the joyous celebration of the Incarnation, quietly completing modest Christmas lists, and preparing dinner menus for fifty without so much as batting an eye. (It should be noted that the effects of Advent vary from person to person.) Just one small reminder: “Have you completed your Jesus list? Have you chosen twelve gifts for Jesus, one for each day of that Christmastide we will so relish when it finally arrives?”

Each day we have an invitation to rededicate our lives to God, and Advent gives us the time to decide how we might do so. Each day God showers us with gifts, and Advent strengthens us to receive the blessings needed for the sometimes difficult consequences of living a Christian life. Each day of Advent urges us to choose twelve gifts of self to give to Jesus, one day at a time. May we be as intentional as the three persevering kings who brought gifts to the city of David’s ancestors, and as simple as the angels and shepherds who worshipped in silent awe; and may we become as innocent and true as the voice of the dear poor one from Christina Rosetti’s “In the Bleak Midwinter,” Yet what I can I give him – give my heart.

Guest blogger, The Rev’d Clarisse Schroeder, serves as curate at St. George’s Episcopal Church, Germantown, TN.