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For many people, the season of Advent is a time of rushing around, decorating the house and buying gifts for loved ones. In the midst of all the business and secular concept of Christmas that the world offers, however, the Church invites us to use these four weeks as a time of prayer and penance as we joyfully await the coming of Christ.

Even though it might seem like madness to frantic Christmas shoppers, Advent is actually a time for slowing down and reflecting on the infinite mystery of the Incarnation. "And the Word became flesh and dwelt among us, full of grace and truth; we have beheld his glory..." (John 1:14)

It is also a season of hope – joyful hope in Christ, who will once again make Himself known to us as a small child at Christmas. Who could possibly be stressed out or discouraged at the miraculous sight of a tiny baby in a manger, the same Word Incarnate who would later suffer and die for the sins of the world, as the only Son of God?

We can prepare ourselves to celebrate this incredible mystery in many ways: going to daily Mass, receiving Jesus in the Eucharist more often, lighting an Advent wreath at home, and confessing our sins in the beautiful sacrament of reconciliation.

In short, Advent is a time of joy, hope and love: virtues that relate quite well to the great miracle of our Savior's birth. Of course, buying presents for family and friends, cooking our favorite meals, and decorating the tree are very good activities, but let's not forget to ready our souls for Christ as well.

As this Advent season draws to a close, let us thank God every day for the gift of His Son at Christmas, and continue striving to grow in greater love of Him and of each other every day.

-- Joseph Bruck is a parishioner of St. Patrick Cathedral in Charlotte.