The season of Advent is very significant and fundamental in the life of the mother Church. The period essentially marks the beginning of a new liturgical year, and four Sundays before Christmas. Advent is also the season leading to the celebration of the earthly birthday of our Lord Jesus by the Christian faithful, all over the world. Most importantly too, it is a period of spiritual preparation whereby many Christians make themselves ready and available for the coming of Jesus, born of the virgin Mary. It’s a season that demands a lot from every Christian in our journey to everlasting life. As Christians, we are expected to be more reflective on our relationship with God and create avenues that would engender peace in a fragile polity such as ours. That being said, this year’s Advent is not different from the previous year’s observance. What is different unfortunately, is the economic situation in the country and other vices that are not only threatening the existence of the society but have also made life unbearable almost for everyone. People are therefore advised to concentrate more on what should edify their spiritual lives which this season represents.
This is not the time for anyone to go out of his/ her way, even going after things that are not necessary, especially at this period the masses and the society as a whole are almost on their knees owing to the challenging times and economic hardships ravaging Calling for moderation in this season of Advent everywhere. Besides, our lives as Christians should be a reflection of our Lord and Master, who in all things was humble till the very end. The message of Advent which is message of hope and renewed assurance certainly is what everyone in the society needs at the moment. We must use the opportunity this season offers us to peep into our own individual lives, even as a community of God’s people and make amend where necessary. The period calls for moderation and also impresses upon us who are the purveyors of Christ message to always do the right thing at a time like this. While we inch closely towards the celebration of Christmas which is the climax of this season, we must realize that in all things Christ is the reason for the season and that all things must be done in moderation.
