Journey

There is a sense of traveling on a journey in Advent.  We read scriptures about Joseph in Matthew and his journey from disbelief and wanting to put Mary away, then the appearing of the angel and a change of heart (Matthew 1:18-25).  Or the journey of the Wise Men, Magi to come and meet Jesus (Matthew 2:1-12).  Or Joseph and Mary's escape to Egypt because of Herod (Matthew 2:13-15).  They are not only physical journeys that these people take, but journeys of the heart, mind, and soul.

So we too are on a journey.  No one knows our own path, mind, soul, or heart just God.  There are times we have dreams that seem too ridiculous, too big, too much to bear and yet somehow God journeys with us through these times.  Then there are the times we are searching, looking for a sign, something to help us get our bearings to continue.  Sometimes these come in big ways and sometimes they are ushered in with the stillness of time.  Then there are the times we have to flee for our own preservation and existence, yet God is still in the midst of it all.

If we look an pay attention we have fellow journeymen who travel with us.  Unexpected gifts and signs on the way they bring in their companionship in word, companionship, and love.  Advent should bring to mind all of these gifts.  The way they bring us life and growth and love with God, with each other, and in our own hearts.