As we get near the end of our first week of the fast, I invite you to reflect on how it has gone so far. How has the actual experience matched your expectations? Is there an area in which you're struggling? Have you found strength in God or a peace that is greater than what you expected?
Several of you have mentioned that over the next few days, you have dinner invitations or special parties to attend. As we talked about before the beginning of the fast, hospitality trumps the "rules" of the fast. As you go people's homes, parties or restaurants, it's perfectly fine to accept - and enjoy! - the hospitality that is offered. If you are able to stick close to the fast at a buffet, wonderful. If you are with someone who has made a very special dessert for you, then by all means, eat it! Perhaps you can eat less that you normally would or have smaller portions of items not proposed during the fast.
But receiving and offering hospitality is an important part of the fast and of our Advent journey. In many ways, Advent is all about hospitality - God offered Jesus to the world graciously, freely, expecting nothing in return. Mary offered her body as a sacred vessel to nurture the Divine and bring Jesus to fullness of life. The shepherds and the magi traveled to the greatest housewarming party ever known, and even came bearing gifts.
This Advent, how can you create a warm and welcoming atmosphere in your soul for Christ to reside? Where can you clear out space for the holy to be nurtured within? How can you anticipate Jesus the guest to arrive in your home, your life, your very being? Many blessings to you throughout the weekend as you receive and offer hospitality!
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