Waiting for The One

By Sister Sandra Brunenn, OSB

My mother’s sister Millie and Uncle Virg lived in New York state and in time had 9 kids. As a child, I remember the visits they made back to Illinois every two or three years.

We lived in Springfield at the time;  the Shupes would always stay at our home for a couple of days on their way to Quincy where all the other relatives lived. 

How we looked forward to their arrival! 

It took planning to arrange for sleeping and eating for a household tripled in size. There was shopping and baking to do, beds to be made, and cribs to be borrowed. 

Most of all, though, I remember the joy as we prepared for their visit … and the anticipation as the time of their arrival approached. 

We would sit in the front yard watching each car as it approached waiting for The One with New York license plates.

Looking back, I consider that to be my real-life introduction to the Advent spirit. We prepared and  planned, waited and watched with great joy and anticipation for their arrival. 

Today the liturgy calls us to be glad as we wait in joyful hope for the coming of Christ.

In the midst of our daily anxieties and cares, let us nurture in our hearts renewed wonder at the coming of our God in human form.

No guest’s arrival could ever surpass this one!