Advent Retreat

I was fortunate, with a small group of colleagues, to spend about 48 hours on an Advent retreat at Gladstone’s library in Hawarden in Wales in the second week of December.

 We considered the pilgrimage in which we participate in the light of the Christmas story. We are always on the way somewhere, but where? And what does that mean? Thus, the picture of a Brio (or similar) train and some Christmas card depictions of the story of the nativity.

 We considered what we are called to do and to be, doing so in the light of how the same questions might have been faced by the characters that appear in Luke’s and Matthew’s accounts of what happened. So, how did Mary feel? Joseph? The shepherds? The magi? And others, perhaps less prominent, but definitely in those stories? What did they feel about what God was saying to them? What do we feel about what God is saying to us?

 Mary’s life was radically transformed when an angel appeared and told her what was going to happen. It was beyond her wildest thoughts. It was hugely exciting, yet also highly risky, as there would clearly be those who misunderstood – something which certainly still happens today.

 But part of the angel’s message to Mary was about how much God loved her. Realise, if you will, that the angel who appeared to Mary is now kneeling before you and waiting. Can you accept the love God is offering you?