In keeping with the penitential theme of Advent, let us examine our own hearts and lives. In the Gospels, it was recorded that there was no room to be found in all Bethlehem for Christ to be born in. What can we say for ourselves? Is the "room" of our heart open and waiting for Our Lord, inviting Him in, or is it dusty, cluttered, and dark? If the latter--and we who are human must admit that this more aptly described our unique situation-- what would it take to prepare ourselves for Him?
What keeps Christ our of your heart? What things-- blatant or hidden-- need to be cleared away? Is it a suffering prayer life? Perhaps an air of superiority / lack of humility? Is it a lying tongue, or one which hurls foul words at others? Could it be gossip? What about your family? How do you treat the very people whose lives and hearts are knit together with your own? Wives, are you obeying your husband as the Church is to obey Christ? Or do you grumble and complain, obeying when it is easy and convenient? Husbands, are you cherishing and nurturing your wives as Our Lord would His bride? Or do you spend your free time in idle pursuits, rather than with your bride? Parents, are you spending quality time with your children and lovingly showing them the light of Christ? I challenge you to find the root of just one thing that keeps Christ from reigning more perfectly in your heart and to make a commitment to weeding it out during this season of Advent.
I pray that you all have a very blessed and a very holy Advent! When we make room in our hearts for Christ, the holy day ('holiday') is, indeed, all the more precious!