A New Genesis Community

Gospel Reflection for the First Week of Advent

Luke 21:25-28,34-36

~Sr. Stephanie Spence, Appleton, WI

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Recently, I, too, watched the skies for signs—signs of the

predicted snowfall. I had a family commitment and needed to

drive, no matter what. The winds and snow threatened, but I pulled up my courage and set out with great vigilance; slippery roads mean great attentiveness. For vigilance to replace our fear we need faith. Pope Francis also adds that vigilance calls for prayer. I did pray more than usual that trip.

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The Gospel also calls us to be awake and ready for the coming of our redemption. With this awareness comes the curiosity of the little ones. We wait in wide-eyed expectation. Let us look around for the evidence of redemption at work. Where do we see compassion for those who have less and need more? Where are the little random acts of kindness happening all around us? Where are people looking outward and responding to their neighbors as well as strangers? After an election season of fear mongering and slandering, we hope and expect better things of ourselves, each other and the universe.

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Two days ago, I came out of the grocery store to see a live mum tucked in my windshield with a note attached saying, “You have experienced much suffering and will see much joy!” It was such a surprise and warmed my heart. I passed the flowered note on to a friend who also needed those comforting words. Let redemptive kindness and compassion bloom as we vigilantly await with faith, hope and prayer this first week of Advent.