Then he told them a parable: “Look at the fig tree and all the trees; as soon as they sprout leaves you can see for yourselves and know that summer is already near. So also, when you see these things taking place, you know that the kingdom of God is near. Truly I tell you, this generation will not pass away until all things have taken place. Heaven and earth will pass away, but my words will not pass away.
New Revised Standard Version, copyright 1989, by the National Council of the Churches of Christ in the United States of America. Used by permission. All rights reserved. USCCB approved.
During a grace-filled retreat I had an “ah-ha” moment when I realized that there’s a huge difference between hypervigilance and deep awareness. Like many who’ve experienced trauma, I’ve spent too much time on high alert! Hypervigilance, a form of anxiety, isn’t only problematic mentally, over time it can damage our bodies. Anxiety floods our system with cortisol, triggering inflammation, which can cause other health issues. Anxiety also inhibits our ability to apprehend what’s really going on around us, often generating reactive misinformation. Conversely, a state of deep awareness renders us present to the moment, available to what is real and brings us peace. And the good news is, prayer, meditation, a long walk or any number of spiritual practices can help release us from hypervigilance and apprentice us to deep awareness. With Advent almost upon us, could Jesus be drawing us toward a deepening awareness of the signs of hope all around? —Jennifer Kelly is the Director of Jesuit Restorative Justice Initiative Northwest, a work of the West Province and the Director of Formation for L’Arche Seattle. Jesus, it’s so easy to get caught up in the worries and cares of the world, yet you offer freedom. As I prepare for Advent, may I open my heart in trust to you, releasing my worries so as to notice signs of your love and grace all around. Amen. —Jennifer KellyBecoming aware of the signs of hope
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Ignatian spirituality reminds us that God pursues us in the routines of our home and work life, and in the hopes and fears of life's challenges. The founder of the Jesuits, Saint Ignatius of Loyola, created the Spiritual Exercises to deepen our relationship with Christ and to move our contemplation into service. May this prayer site anchor your day and strengthen your resolve to remember what truly matters.
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