Message from Associate Pastor Aaron Pierre, S.J.
While I love all of the seasons in the liturgical calendar, Advent holds a special place for me in particular because of the music. Advent hymns like “Of The Father’s Love Begotten”, “Come Thou Long Expected Jesus”, and “O Come O Come Emmanuel” move my spirit everytime I hear them. They capture so beautifully, in sound and word, the longing at heart of every human being: a deep, insatiable desire to be one with God.
Despite the busyness that always happens in the month of December, spiritually we wait in anticipation for Jesus’ humble entry into our world on Christmas. The ancient Advent prayer, “Come, Lord Jesus,” is powerful in its simplicity and depth. These three words capture our longing for the divine and also reflect Jesus’ desire to be near to us. Best of all, when I repeat these three words throughout my day, they remind me to stay curious about finding Jesus in the world around me.
Around which chilly corner might we find a sign of Jesus’ warmth and love? In which conversation today might we be encouraged by the Spirit? During which moment of silence might we hear the whispering voice of God’s comfort?
Consider making the prayer, “Come, Lord Jesus'' your mantra these days of Advent. If you’re anything like me, this simple prayer may help you stay curious in looking for the presence of Jesus in your everyday lives.
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