The readings today call us to patience through waiting -- waiting for the coming of the Lord, the redemption of a spirit, and the birth of a child. For the past four weeks, we have practiced this patience in preparation for the joyful arrival of Jesus. In my own life, practicing patience has been a constant learning experience. Since I was young, my family has taught me that patience is a virtue, encouraging me to find the joy in the uncertain. During my time at Yale, Fr. Bob has taught me that there is comfort in allowing yourself not to know, teaching me to trust that something wonderful lies within every unknown.

Throughout the development of my faith, God has shown me that love surrounds every moment of darkness, reminding me to trust in His grace. Today’s readings draw on these messages, reminding us all that God will always bring us light. For, when we are reminded that all of our lives our filled with the acceptance of the Lord, we are filled not only with patience, but also with Christian hope. There is beauty in moments of truly finding and recognizing this hope-filled patience.

In this advent season, can we strive not only to wait, but also to wait well? Although it may seem difficult to find joy in waiting, we must not settle to accept patience. We must actively strive to honor God through our Christian hope. With whom can we wait? What can we do while we wait? As you wait for the things in your life, the green light, the big break, the good news, surround yourself with people who push you to be better and seek challenges that encourage you to grow. As the today’s Psalm states, “Lift your heads and see; your redemption is near at hand.”

So, lift your heads from the burdens of waiting and see the light surrounding you.

Redemption is near at hand.