"It is right for me to feel this way about all of you, since I have you in my heart--all of you share in God's grace with me."
- Phil 1:6-11
 
We hear in this text Paul's letters to the Christian communities he served, with how deeply he cared for his brothers and sisters in Christ. This letter he wrote to the church at Philippe tells of care and concern that is most remarkable.
 
Paul sees the body as more than a fellowship and unity joined by its shared purpose and work. This is clear in the prayer he sends with his greetings to . . .

"It is right for me to feel this way about all of you, since I have you in my heart--all of you share in God's grace with me."
- Phil 1:6-11
 
We hear in this text Paul's letters to the Christian communities he served, with how deeply he cared for his brothers and sisters in Christ. This letter he wrote to the church at Philippe tells of care and concern that is most remarkable.
 
Paul sees the body as more than a fellowship and unity joined by its shared purpose and work. This is clear in the prayer he sends with his greetings to the these Christians. He prays that their love for one another might increase in order to prepare them for the day of Christ.
 
Do you see the point here, that preparation takes place not only individually but also with the context of community. Our families, friends, fellow parishioners, and our co-workers help form us. Our Advent preparation cannot be done alone in the solitude of prayer. Preparing also means attending to the quality of our relationships and practicing active love. Whatever it means to each of us personally, the preparation we do to ready involves one another.
 
Dear LORD, in high compassion
Bend down with Advent grace.
My heart, I pray, refashion
With mercy from Your face.
 
THOUGHT FOR THE DAY- This Advent may we be given new eyes to see into our relationships and to invite them into the light of God's promise.