The Second Week of Advent

Annunciation

Mary's 'How can this be?' was a simple response...and profound. She does not lose her voice but finds it. Like many of the prophets, she asserts herself before God saying, 'Here am I.' There is no arrogance, however, but only holy fear and wonder. Mary proceeds--as we must do in life--making her commitments without knowing much about what it will entail or where it will lead. I treasure the story because it forces me to ask: When the mystery of God's love breaks through into my consciousness, do I run from it?...Or am I virgin enough to respond from my deepest, truest self, and say something new, a 'yes' that will change me forever?" --Kathleen Norris from Amazing Grace

The Habit of Advent

In Mary "the Word of God chose to be silent for the season measured by God. She, too, was silent: in her the light of God shone in darkness." (Caryll Houselander)

We, too, may practice this habit of Advent patience. Though the frozen winter earth of our hearts lies fallow, God is pleased to warm us with Christ's presence.

Lo, in the silent night
a child to God is born
And all is brought again
That ere was lost or lorn

Could but thy soul, o man
Become a silent night!
God would be born in thee
And set all things aright.--15th century, author unknown