Author: interioraltar

Rector, serving Holy Trinity Episcopal Church, Fayetteville, NC in the Diocese of East Carolina.

Prepare

Advent is a season of preparation, a time to ready our hearts for the coming of Christ. John the Baptist’s call to “A voice of one calling in the wilderness, ‘Prepare the way for the Lord, make straight paths for him.‘” (Matthew 3:3, NIV) echoes through the ages, urging us to clear the paths in our lives that have become cluttered by distractions, sin, and spiritual indifference.

What areas of our lives feel spiritually cluttered or distracted? Preparing spiritually means more than checking items off a holiday to-do list. It involves intentional reflection, repentance, and renewal. It’s a call to create space in our lives for God’s presence by fostering peace, practicing generosity, and deepening our relationship with Christ through prayer and Scripture.

How can we create space for God through prayer, Scripture reading, and acts of kindness? Consider how we prepare for significant events in our lives. Think of the effort put into planning celebrations, milestones, or even daily responsibilities. How much more should we dedicate time and effort to preparing our hearts for the arrival of Jesus?

Are there any habits or attitudes we need to surrender to better prepare our hearts for Christ’s presence? Preparation also includes cultivating expectant hope. We are not only remembering Christ’s first coming but also anticipating his return. How can our spiritual preparation reflect both remembrance and expectation?

How can we live with a sense of hopeful anticipation for Christ’s return while embracing his presence here and now?

JOY

As we journey through Advent, we are called to reflect on the meaning of joy — a central theme of this sacred season. Joy in the Christian life is more than a temporary feeling or a response to favorable circumstances. It is a profound state of being, rooted in God’s enduring presence and his promises.

In Luke 2:10, the angel proclaims to the shepherds:
“Do not be afraid. I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people.”

This message of joy is at the heart of the Advent story. The birth of Jesus Christ is the fulfillment of God’s promise, a beacon of hope for a weary world. The shepherds, initially gripped by fear, experienced a transformation through the angel’s announcement. Their encounter with the Christ child became a moment of divine joy, reminding us that joy often breaks through when we least expect it.

What about us? In a world that often feels uncertain or heavy, how do we cultivate lasting joy? Joy is not the absence of struggles but the assurance that God is with us through it all. Advent invites us to shift our focus from what we lack to what we have already received in Christ. It challenges us to trust that even in difficult seasons, God’s light shines through.

Consider Mary’s response when she learned she would bear the Messiah:
“My soul glorifies the Lord, and my spirit rejoices in God my Savior, for he has been mindful of the humble state of his servant.” – Luke 1:46-48

Mary’s joy sprang from her faith in God’s promises, despite her uncertain future. She faced potential hardship, yet she trusted in God’s plan and rejoiced in his presence. Her example reminds us that joy is born from surrender and trust in God’s love.

As you reflect this Advent, consider what brings true joy into your life. Is it found in external achievements or in the quiet assurance of God’s care? How might you nurture a heart of joy by practicing gratitude, deepening your faith, or sharing kindness with others? Who in your life needs to experience Christ’s joy through your actions and words?

Joy is not meant to be kept for ourselves. It is a gift meant to be shared. In giving, we often find our joy multiplied. This Advent, may we be bearers of joy, spreading light wherever we go, confident that the good news of Jesus Christ still brings hope to the world.

REFINE

Advent is a season of preparation, a time when we wait with expectation for the coming of Jesus. The word “refine” resonates deeply with the spiritual work God desires to do in us during this season. Scripture often uses the image of refining fire to describe God’s transformative power. Malachi 3:2-3 declares, “But who can endure the day of his coming? Who can stand when he appears? For he will be like a refiner’s fire or a launderer’s soap. He will sit as a refiner and purifier of silver.” This imagery speaks of a process that is both intense and purposeful. God, like a silversmith, applies the heat of life’s challenges to purify our hearts, removing impurities and shaping us into vessels that reflect his glory.

Isaiah 48:10 reminds us, “See, I have refined you, though not as silver; I have tested you in the furnace of affliction.” Life’s difficulties can feel like a furnace, yet in God’s hands, these trials serve a higher purpose. They test and strengthen our faith, much like how precious metals are purified through fire. Similarly, 1 Peter 1:6-7 says, “In all this you greatly rejoice, though now for a little while you may have had to suffer grief in all kinds of trials. These have come so that the proven genuineness of your faith—of greater worth than gold, which perishes even though refined by fire—may result in praise, glory and honor when Jesus Christ is revealed.” Advent invites us to view our struggles through the lens of refinement rather than punishment. God is not indifferent to our pain; he is present in the process, shaping us with compassion and purpose.

As we reflect on God’s refining work this Advent, consider these questions: Where is God refining you right now? Are there challenges or struggles that could be part of his purifying work? How do you respond to his refining process—do you resist or trust his hand at work? What impurities—attitudes, habits, or fears—need to be removed from your heart to make room for Christ’s presence? Lastly, how can you actively prepare your heart this Advent through spiritual practices like prayer, Scripture reading, service, or quiet reflection?

May this Advent season be a time of surrender and transformation. As we await the coming of Jesus, may we trust in God’s refining love, believing that he is shaping us into his image, making our lives reflections of his grace and truth. Lord, refine our hearts. Purify us so that we may shine with your light, prepared for your coming.

SPLENDOR

“Arise, shine; for your light has come, and the glory of the Lord has risen upon you.”
— Isaiah 60:1

During Advent, the word “splendor” calls us to reflect on the brilliance of God’s presence breaking into the world through Jesus Christ. Splendor conveys majesty, beauty, and radiance — qualities that describe God’s divine nature revealed in the coming of Christ.

Splendor of God’s Creation
“The heavens declare the glory of God; the skies proclaim the work of his hands.”
— Psalm 19:1

Creation itself reflects God’s splendor. As we journey through Advent, nature’s beauty reminds us of the Creator’s magnificence. Even in winter’s stillness, there’s a quiet splendor that mirrors God’s enduring promise of new life.

Splendor of Christ’s Coming
“The people who walked in darkness have seen a great light; those who lived in a land of deep darkness—on them light has shined.”
— Isaiah 9:2

The birth of Jesus is the ultimate display of God’s splendor. Jesus’s birth illuminates a dark world with hope, peace, joy, and love. Advent invites us to open our hearts to that light and reflect it in our lives through our words and actions.

Splendor of Eternal Glory
“For God, who said, ‘Let light shine out of darkness,’ made his light shine in our hearts to give us the light of the knowledge of God’s glory displayed in the face of Christ.”
— 2 Corinthians 4:6

Advent also points us toward Christ’s second coming in glory. We wait with expectant hope, trusting in the splendor of God’s ultimate plan of redemption and eternal life.

Reflection Questions:

  • How have you seen God’s splendor in your life recently?
  • In what ways can you reflect Christ’s light to others during this Advent season?

SAFETY

During Advent, we reflect on the coming of Jesus Christ, the embodiment of God’s promise of safety and salvation. “Safety” in this context goes beyond physical protection; it encompasses spiritual refuge, peace, and hope. In a world filled with uncertainty, Advent reminds us that true safety is found in God’s presence and His eternal promises.

The birth of Jesus was God’s declaration that He is with us — Emmanuel. This divine nearness assures us that even in the storms of life, we are held securely in His love. The promise of safety does not mean a life free of trials, but rather the assurance that God walks with us, guiding and protecting our souls.

Scripture Reflections:

  1. Psalm 46:1 – “God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble.” This verse reminds us that God’s safety is constant and unfailing. He is our shelter in times of fear and uncertainty.
  2. Isaiah 41:10 – “Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God; I will strengthen you, I will help you, I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.” In Advent, we remember that God’s promise of safety came to fulfillment in Jesus, offering strength and comfort through his presence.
  3. John 10:28-29 – “I give them eternal life, and they shall never perish; no one will snatch them out of my hand.” Jesus’ coming assures us of eternal security. Through him, we are safe from spiritual harm, held firmly in God’s care.
  4. Matthew 1:23 – “Behold, the virgin shall conceive and bear a son, and they shall call his name Emmanuel” (which means, God with us). The name “Emmanuel” reminds us that God’s presence is the ultimate safety we seek — his nearness brings peace amid life’s challenges.

As we journey through Advent, may we find safety in God’s unchanging promises and rest in the peace that Jesus’ birth brings to the world.

FAITHFULNESS

Reflecting on faithfulness during Advent invites us to consider God’s unwavering promises and our own commitment to living out our faith.

God’s Faithfulness in Scripture

  • Old Testament Promises: Reflect on how God promised a Messiah (Isaiah 9:6) and remained faithful despite humanity’s shortcomings.
  • Fulfillment in Christ: The birth of Jesus is the ultimate expression of God’s faithfulness (Luke 1:68-75).

Reflection: How have you seen God’s promises fulfilled in your life?

2. Mary and Joseph’s Faithfulness

  • Mary’s “Yes” (Luke 1:38): Mary displayed trust despite uncertainty.
  • Joseph’s Obedience (Matthew 1:24): He followed God’s direction even when it was difficult.

Reflection: How can you trust and obey God, even when his plan seems unclear?

3. Our Call to Faithfulness

  • Living in Hope: Advent reminds us to remain faithful while awaiting Christ’s return.
  • Acts of Love and Service: Faithfulness includes living out love and respect through action (James 2:17).

Reflection: How can you be more faithful in your relationships, responsibilities, and spiritual practices this Advent?

SPROUT

The word “SPROUT” evokes imagery of growth, new beginnings, and the quiet yet powerful emergence of life from the unseen. It symbolizes potential and hope, themes deeply rooted in the season of Advent in the Christian tradition.

Advent, derived from the Latin adventus meaning “coming” or “arrival,” marks a time of anticipation and preparation for the celebration of Christ’s birth and his awaited return. The connection between Sprout and Advent is poetic: both represent an unfolding of something hidden, fragile, yet filled with promise.

In Scripture, the image of a sprout often represents divine hope and renewal. For instance, Isaiah proclaims, “A shoot will come up from the stump of Jesse; from his roots a Branch will bear fruit” (Isaiah 11:1). This prophecy speaks of the coming of the Messiah, a small but mighty sprout emerging from what appears lifeless to bring salvation and new life.

Advent invites us to reflect on the tender sprout of God’s promise—Jesus—growing quietly in Mary’s womb. Like a sprout breaking through the soil, the season encourages believers to cultivate hearts ready for growth, nurturing faith, and hope amidst the darkness.

Thus, Sprout and Advent converge as metaphors for waiting, nurturing, and the assurance that even in stillness, life is stirring toward its fullness. They call us to prepare for and trust in the transformative power of what is yet to come.

REDEMPTION

Advent is a sacred season of waiting and longing, a time to prepare our hearts to receive the mystery of Christ’s coming. Redemption lies at the very heart of this holy season, calling us to contemplate the unfathomable love of God, who entered into the frailty of human flesh to save us from the darkness of sin.

In the stillness of Advent, hear the echoes of God’s covenantal promise to redeem his people. Meditate on the ancient prophecies, such as Isaiah 9:2, which proclaims: “The people walking in darkness have seen a great light.” This light is Christ, the fulfillment of God’s eternal plan to rescue humanity from sin and death.

Redemption begins in the quiet humility of Bethlehem, where the infinite God chose to dwell among us as a child. In Christ’s coming, heaven touches earth, and the promise of restoration takes form. Let your soul marvel at this divine mystery: the Word made flesh, entering our brokenness to bring us life.

Advent invites us to prepare our hearts for the Redeemer, allowing his light to dispel the darkness within us. Consider Psalm 130:7, which declares: “With the Lord is unfailing love and with him is full redemption.” Bring before him your wounds, sins, and burdens, trusting in his power to make you whole.

Redemption is not only personal but cosmic. Christ’s coming is a gift to all creation, a sign of God’s boundless love for every soul. Pray for a heart attuned to this universal grace, joining in the angelic proclamation: “Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace to those on whom His favor rests” (Luke 2:14).

Advent reminds us that the story of redemption is ongoing. Just as we celebrate Christ’s first coming, we await his return, when all creation will be renewed. As you reflect on Revelation 21:4—“He will wipe every tear from their eyes”— let your heart yearn for the day when his Kingdom will come in fullness.

Advent is a journey of the soul—a time to watch, wait, and wonder. It is an invitation to prepare the manger of your heart for the Christ Child, to surrender to the grace of his redemption, and to rejoice in the eternal love that came down to dwell among us. Let this sacred season awaken a deeper longing for the One who alone can redeem and restore.

ABOUND

ABOUND

The word “ABOUND” means to exist in large numbers or to be plentiful, and it can be beautifully applied to the meaning of Advent, a season of anticipation and preparation in the Christian tradition. Advent is a time when hope, joy, love, and peace are said to abound in the hearts of believers as we prepare to celebrate Christ’s birth at Christmas and look forward to his second coming.

Hope Abounds

Advent is a season of hope, looking forward to the fulfillment of God’s promises.

Romans 15:13: “May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, so that by the power of the Holy Spirit you may abound in hope.”

This verse captures the overflowing hope we experience during Advent as we await Christ’s coming.

Joy Abounds

Joy is central to Advent, reflecting the anticipation of Christ’s arrival.

Luke 2:10-11: “And the angel said to them, ‘Fear not, for behold, I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all the people. For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord.’”

The message of Christ’s birth brings abundant joy and is celebrated throughout the Advent season.

Love Abounds

Advent reflects the abundance of God’s love, revealed through the incarnation of Jesus.

John 3:16: “For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life.”

1 John 4:9: “In this the love of God was made manifest among us, that God sent his only Son into the world, so that we might live through him.”

God’s love overflows in his gift of Jesus, inspiring love in our hearts during Advent.

Peace Abounds

Peace is a hallmark of Advent, as we trust in Christ’s promises.

Isaiah 9:6: “For to us a child is born, to us a son is given; and the government shall be upon his shoulder, and his name shall be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.”

John 14:27: “Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you. Not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your hearts be troubled, neither let them be afraid.”

Christ’s arrival brings abundant peace to those who trust in him.

By saying these virtues “abound” during Advent, we emphasize the rich, overflowing nature of the spiritual blessings and sentiments this season inspires. By connecting these themes to Scripture, we see how Advent is a time when hope, joy, love, and peace truly abound in the hearts of believers.

Centering Prayer

The Art and Spirituality of Centering Prayer: A Journey into Inner Stillness

Introduction:

Finding moments of inner peace and connection with the divine can be challenging in the bustling cacophony of modern life. Centering prayer, a contemplative practice rooted in ancient traditions yet relevant today offers a pathway to stillness and spiritual renewal.

Historical Roots:

Centering prayer has roots in Christian mysticism and the contemplative tradition. While its origins can be traced back to the early Christian desert fathers and mothers, modern contemplatives like Thomas Merton, Thomas Keating, and Basil Pennington revitalized it in the 20th century. Drawing from ancient Christian practices such as hesychasm and the prayer of the heart, centering prayer emerged as a modern contemplative method accessible to people of all faiths.

Principles of Centering Prayer:

At its core, centering prayer is a simple yet profound method of silent prayer. Its practice involves sitting quietly in a comfortable position, gently letting go of thoughts, emotions, and distractions, and consenting to the presence and action of the divine within. Unlike other forms of prayer that involve words or petitions, centering prayer emphasizes receptivity and openness to the mystery of God’s presence.

The practice typically begins with a brief prayer or sacred word, known as a mantra, to help focus the mind and initiate the process of centering. As thoughts inevitably arise, practitioners are encouraged to gently return to the sacred word, allowing it to anchor their awareness in the present moment. Through this process of letting go and surrendering to the divine presence, practitioners enter a state of deep inner stillness and communion with God.

Spiritual Benefits:

Centering prayer offers many spiritual benefits for those who regularly engage in its practice. One of its primary benefits is the cultivation of inner peace and tranquility in the midst of life’s challenges. By quieting the mind and turning inward, practitioners learn to detach from the ego’s constant chatter and tap into a source of unshakeable serenity that transcends external circumstances.

Moreover, centering prayer facilitates a deeper awareness of God’s presence in all aspects of life. As practitioners become more attuned to the divine presence within, they develop a heightened sense of spiritual sensitivity and discernment, enabling them to recognize and respond more readily to the promptings of the Holy Spirit.

Additionally, centering prayer fosters a sense of inner integration and wholeness, as it invites practitioners to embrace their authentic selves with compassion and acceptance. Through the process of self-emptying and surrender, individuals release the false identities and attachments that obscure their divine nature, allowing their authentic selves to shine forth more brightly.

Centering prayer, therefore, deepens one’s relationship with God and fosters a sense of intimacy and union with the divine. As practitioners rest in the silence of God’s presence, they experience a profound sense of communion that transcends words or concepts, entering into a sacred dialogue of love and surrender.

Summary:

Centering prayer is a timeless invitation to journey into the depths of the soul and commune with the divine. Rooted in ancient wisdom yet relevant in today’s world, this contemplative practice offers a pathway to inner stillness, spiritual renewal, and intimate communion with God. As we embrace the art and spirituality of centering prayer, may we discover the profound depths of our being and awaken to the infinite love that dwells within and around us.

ALL may, SOME should, NONE must