Many of us know that Advent is a time of preparation, a season to clean our spiritual house to make way for Jesus, the guest, to come into our homes. Who is this Jesus that we should take such a detailed approach to sweeping and mopping the floors of our sacred space? Would we clean our homes with a fine-toothed comb if we did not really know our guest? The restructuring details depend on how close we are to the One who comes to dine with us.

     We come to know Jesus as we prepare our hearts and minds to receive Him as our guest. We learn Jesus is kind as we read passages of the Gospels to see how he treated people. We also read stories where Jesus stood firm against issues threatening to destroy the disciples. His passion for social justice and reform brought everyone a new way of being.

     One of the most effective ways to truly understand who Jesus is, is to actively connect with God each day. By reading scripture and listening to the small voice in our hearts that guides us to action, we deepen our personal relationship with Jesus. It’s important to remember that we should never remain still and unconnected. While he may lead us beside still waters, our true source of restoration comes from Him.

     During the Advent season, it’s crucial to remember to thank the One who guides us. His leadership is not just a guiding force, but a transformative power that keeps us on the path of wholeness and helps us to learn more about the Divine. Our active engagement with His teachings gives us the strength to grow in faith, moving forward with the hope and knowledge that we are His children.