The Christmas season continues to bring our country together in the pursuit of joy and peace. Even if many overlook the reason for the season, we can refocus our attention on the coming of Christ in hope. The Son of God came into the world over two thousand years ago, but the celebration of Christmas continues to invite him to come anew into our hearts and the world. He comes to renew us, giving us confidence that God will triumph over all evil in the world, bringing his Kingdom of peace and love.
This Advent we can put our hope in the Prince of Peace prophesied by Isaiah, the one who continues to bring peace into the world. He does so not by intervening from above, but by coming to abide in our hearts, making us men of peace who spread the Kingdom of God in the world. By taking the preparation of Advent seriously, we open our lives to the renewal of grace, becoming men of hope who stand ready to follow the Prince of Peace at all times. Through joyful asceticism, we will keep our gaze fixed on the things that matter most throughout the Christmas season.
Each day of Advent we will read from the Prophet Isaiah, who so clearly points to the coming of the Messiah, born of a Virgin. In addition, we will offer a series of reflections from the renowned speaker, Msgr. James Shea, President of the University of Mary, who will further inspire us to live as apostles in spreading the Kingdom against the religion of the day. We will also offer a daily guide on rediscovering Advent and Christmas traditions rooted in our faith to overcome the consumerism and shallow entertainment that so often trivialize this beautiful season.
There is hope for our world. As we prepare for Christmas, God can renew our hearts in the gift of hope!
