Advent Surprise

Dear Friends,

This past week, I spent a few days in New York City to celebrate my birthday. From the giant Christmas tree in Rockefeller Center to the dazzling light display at Saks Fifth Avenue, the city did not disappoint.

Yet despite all the glitz, one of my favorite places to linger during Advent is the cloister-like Medieval Wing of the Metropolitan Museum of Art. At the center of the gallery stands a towering Christmas tree adorned with angel ornaments and surrounded by intricately carved nativity figures and a bustling village scene.

Against the backdrop of a wrought-iron rood screen stretching from floor to ceiling, and with dimmed lights and sacred music flowing softly through the speakers, I soaked in the ethereal peace of Christ—peace that quieted the rush of the season. As I wandered the gallery, I encountered familiar Advent companions: an icon of John the Baptist baptizing Jesus, a sculpture of the wild prophet crying out in the wilderness, and, of course, countless images of Mary tenderly holding the Christ child.

Later that evening, as I made my way up Fifth Avenue past the brilliant displays of Bergdorf and Tiffany’s, a simple banner hanging from a church caught my eye. It read: “Advent: Doorways to the Manger—How Will You Come?”

I found myself wondering: What are the doorways that Advent opens for us? A lit candle. A hymn or verse of Scripture. A quiet moment. Holiday preparations offered in love.

And how will we come?

Humble and lowly like Mary and Joseph?

With praise and awe like the angelic host?

Uncertain and curious like the shepherds?

On bended knee, bearing gifts, like the Magi?

There on Fifth Avenue—beneath the shimmer of holiday lights—a humble banner on the side of a church became my own invitation to draw closer to Christ. May this Advent season open a portal of hope, peace, joy, and love that calls us out of darkness into His marvelous light (1 Peter 2:9).

What portal is Advent opening for you this year? How will you come?

Blessings,  

Rev. Tara