Fourth Sunday of Advent

For many of us, what is one of the big events we look forward to once-a-year? Vacation, right? As the date of departure gets closer, you find your mind wandering now and then to how relaxed you are going to feel, what activities you might be enjoying while away, and how happy you will be to “be away” from it all. You begin to pack suitcases for yourself, and the family, if you happen to have little ones. Finally, the day of departure! Absolutely everyone is excited with not a second thought of work, or bills, or to-do lists.

This is how we assume Mary must have felt as she set out for Judah “in haste” to spend time with her cousin Elizabeth. And even John the Baptist was overtaken with the moment as he “leaped for joy” upon Mary’s arrival. Oh the fun, the laughter, the adventures, the long walks, and talks between family.

So we are assured this is how it will be when, for one final time, the Lord God will return to earth for his chosen people – you and me. So we wait, during Advent, with genuine delight at the time when finally our Savior arrives and blesses us with a peace which seems only a dream at present.

Try to remind yourself each day how, on Christmas Day, the world was given that glimmer of excitement that our lives won’t forever be tested with burdens and unrest. Imagine looking up to the sky one night (just as the shepherds) and hearing the song, “Glory to God in the Highest, and on earth, peace, to those upon whom his favor rests”. Well, you’d probably pinch yourself!

We continue to prepare, continue to “pack the suitcases”, and look forward to Christmas Day when God the Father sends us Peace: that little baby in the manger who will overcome this world. As Advent comes to a close, don’t forget the excitement and longing for the One who will be the answer beyond all of our imagined best vacations.

Karla Icsman works in the Office of Stewardship and Development for the Diocese of Lafayette-in-Indiana.