Advent – Our Journey to Bethlehem
Last week, we were reminded of the “voice” that cries in the desert- to “repent” and make way for the Lord (Mk 1:1-8). This week again, we see John the Baptist – “a man sent by God to be a witness to the light” (Jn 1: 6-8, 19-28).
“Advent is a journey towards Bethlehem” said Pope Francis and as we make this journey, we need to prepare our hearts. Perhaps it is repentance we need, to flood our hearts with the light of Christ so that we can experience the peace and joy we are frequently searching for. Thus, in doing so, we can be a witness to the light too.
We get so distracted during Advent with decorations, merriment, buying presents for each other that we unintentionally silence this “voice” or forget to prepare a gift for the one who is the reason for the season.
As we make our way to Bethlehem, let us reflect on the gifts of the magi, two thousand years ago:
Myrrh – symbolic in anointing high priests and kings
Facts: myrrh is a sap extracted by wounding a tree. It has great healing properties and is used as medicinal herb in indigestion, ulcer, arthritis and in bacterial infection. It is also used in embalming a dead body.
Reflection: What is our myrrh? May be all the wounds, pains, suffering and loss that we can give Jesus so that it becomes a healing remedy. In that way we too become a witness to his light.
Frankincense – symbolizes sacredness
Facts: also a sap from a tree infested with snakes and before one could tap the tree – one has to smoke out the snakes.
Reflection: What are our frankincense? The purity of our prayers that come without deceit and worldliness- a prayer that wishes well for others. May be a prayer to mould us: Come Lord Jesus, shape my heart, my thoughts and my life.
Gold – a symbol of purity and kingship
Facts: For gold to achieve its pure state- it goes through a process of purification at very high heat
Reflection: What is our gold? The most delicate and precious gift we can give is our heart – Is it pure? Or is it dim with it desires set on worldly goods? (Note: The reflection on the gifts of magi was adapted from the Advent Retreat 2020 Divine Australia)
Let us not drown the “voice” with all the external noise but instead be that voice and witness in today’s world that helps others to find their way to Christ so that they too may experience the peace and joy in the midst of all circumstances. – SR
What can I give Him, Poor as I am?
Christina Rossetti (In the Bleak Midwinter)
If I were a shepherd I would bring a lamb,
If I were a Wise Man I would do my part,—
Yet what I can I give Him, Give my heart.