by John Eagers

It would seem to me that one overarching theme from the recent Synod in Rome is that we, as a Church, are on a journey; and as we journey we are called to listen both to one another and to the Holy Spirit. It would also seem to me that Advent is a season in which Christians are called to journey together listening to one another and to the Holy Spirit.

Yet it can be difficult to listen in Advent because it is a time which, for many is perennially busy. Quickly our diaries become filled with social, work and even parish events and we seem to have a variety of other commitments to fill our days. We have Christmas shopping, cards to write, presents to wrap. The list seems endless.

Yet Advent is traditionally a time of preparation and a time for slowing down as we prepare to celebrate the birth of our Saviour. Advent is a time for listening and, maybe this Advent, to be inspired by Mary.

The angel Gabriel was sent by God to a town in Galilee called Nazareth, to a virgin betrothed to a man named Joseph, of the house of David; and the virgin’s name was Mary. He went in and said to her, ‘Rejoice, so highly favoured!’ The Lord is with you.

How often have we heard these words proclaimed and how often have we listened? Mary listened as the angel spoke to her. She listened with every part of her being; she listened with faith. Yet, as she listened the words spoken by Gabriel disturbed her and shattered her peace.

Gabriel continued, ‘Mary do not be afraid; you have won God’s favour. Listen! You are to conceive and bear a son, and you must call him Jesus. He will be great and will be called the Son of the most High’. Mary listened with an open heart to these words which further confused and disturbed her. They were the beginning of a journey that would give meaning to the rest of her life.

John Eagers is a priest of the Diocese of Paisley.

Photo by KaLisa Veer on Unsplash.