First Sunday of Advent

Happy New Year!
In today's Homily, Father spoke about waiting, which is what Advent is all about. How many of us pull out our cell phone when we have to wait? It distracts us so the time will go by faster, doesn't it?
Father used that analogy to underscore that Advent is a time of waiting...not "distraction" waiting, but waiting filled with hope and joy. He urged us to be active in waiting with God's presence in our lives.
We have so many distractions this time of year: the presents, the decorating, the baking...the GIVING. Advent should be a time of quietly waiting in anticipation of what is to come.
I love this time of year. I love lighting each candle in the Advent Wreath. I remember how it seemed like we'd never light that last candle when I was growing up. I loved the anticipation; in fact, I still do.
Best quote from today's Homily: Christmas has no meaning if we don't see the reality of Easter.