Adventing Poorly

Lord, we advent poorly.

We do okay with going

Going to church

Going to school

Going to work

Going to parties

Going, going, going

This, we do well. 

But coming requires less

and more

and we do it poorly.

Coming to the foot of the cross in prayer

Coming to the aid of those who need it

Coming to the realization that we cannot do it all

Coming... implies leaving

And we're not entirely sure we want to leave

the comfort

the freedom to do what we want when we want to

the status

the self importance

the hustle and bustle

the bright lights

for what feels like darkness

cold

silence

and unfulfilled longing.

And so we advent poorly

Trying to to come

while going, going, going

Trying to see the star of Bethlehem

amid the pollution of lights

Trying to hear the still small voice

between the notes of blaring carols

Trying to give enough to feel good

while still remaining wealthy

and comfortable

and un-inconvenienced.

Lord, help us advent poorly

As you did,

giving up everything

for those who have nothing

emptying ourselves

our pockets

our calendars

so we can pour into others

bearing your light

your love

your Word

to those who long to be filled.

Amen