The holiday season will end in the next three weeks; however, preparation is a year-long process for some.

 

What does the word prepare mean to you?

 

Many of us celebrate the second week of Advent this time of year for those who follow Christ’s coming.  Nevertheless, the theme this past Sunday was “Prepare.”

 

As I sat in Mass this weekend, I thought about what the word prepare means.  I felt good knowing it was one of those times I could focus and listen to the message.

 

I could focus and listen more intently because it was one of those times when I wasn’t on the schedule to serve in any significant roles except Usher.

 

For many, this time of year is taxing or weighing on families.  More specifically, those families that have lost loved ones over the years and are not physically present.

 

As I sat and reflected on my mother, who passed away on December 21, 2016, and my wife’s sister, who passed away on December 25, 2021, it hit home.

 

Sometimes, it requires us to prepare ourselves mentally for the holidays.  I also know that sometimes there is a specific preparation I go through as I prepare my mind to be strong.

 

What about you, in your preparation?

 

The words of the Chicago Mass Choir singing “I pray we’ll be ready” resonated with me as I listened to the lyrics.

 

 Chicago Mass Choir- “I Pray We’ll Be Ready” (youtube.com)

 

I know that my mother constantly prayed for all my siblings and me.

I also have come to understand the true meaning of Christmas years ago.

 

With that said, I’m also sensitive, knowing that Christmas means different things to different people of other religions.

 

I don’t take you for granted, and I respect each of you.

 

Did you know that Advent is only three weeks and one day this year compared to years past?

 

As I went to Walmart with the Bell Ringers this week, I placed money in the Salvation Army Kettles.  It was my reminder that we only see this during the Christmas season.

 

Like those ringing bells raising money for the Salvation Army, the Advent season only occurs once a year.

 

We will make an impact; however, how we physically celebrate Christmas is up to us. My specific Church is sponsoring 97 families and making Christmas Baskets for Christmas dinner.

 

My favorite part is Midnight Mass (Christmas Eve), which is how I have remained grounded over the years.

 

I thank my wife, who first introduced me to Midnight Mass in 1984, and other than being deployed, I’m grateful for making this celebration a part of my life each year.

 

As others will probably attend parties and have liquid cheer, I have learned to create my sense of expectation management for the holidays.

 

As I close, I will tell you that depending on my route, my reminder appears each time I travel down a specific road in my area.  I see a particular Catholic Church called “St. John the Baptist.”

 

What are your reminders to help you to prepare?

 

Of course, those who read the Bible understand the words “prepared the way of the Lord.” “The voice of one crying out in the wilderness.” (Isaiah 40:3) and (Luke 3:4) In doing this, John fulfilled prophecy.

 

Sometimes, like the name of a church, giving to the poor or celebrating Advent are just a few of my daily reminders to keep me grounded.

 

What about you?  What keeps you grounded, and why do we do what we do each day?

 

“The wise man should be prepared for everything that does not lie within his control.”  Pythagoras

 

Have a blessed holiday season!