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Viewpoint from Rev Jo Wood 29/11/2024
 Rev Jo Wood
Team Rector (designate), Flegg Parish Churches
Incumbent of the Flegg East District churches of Filby, Mautby, Ormesby St Margaret, Ormesby St Michael, Rollesby, and Thrigby
Advent: The Sacred Art of Waiting Well
As November’s chill deepens and the world is awash with forthcoming seasonal preparations, the season of Advent – which starts on 1st December - invites us to pause and reflect. Far more than a countdown to Christmas, Advent is a sacred season of waiting — a time to prepare our hearts for the arrival of the Light of the World, Jesus
The word Advent comes from the Latin adventus, meaning “coming” or “arrival”. It is a season steeped in hope and anticipation. Advent invites us to embrace waiting not as passive idleness but as a spiritual discipline. In a world that prizes immediacy and instant gratification, Advent reminds us that waiting can be holy work
 Waiting well begins with acknowledging our deep spiritual need. The world is often dark, weighed down by suffering, division, and despair. Advent points us to the light of Christ, the one who brings healing and redemption. Yet, this light does not arrive on our timetable. The practice of waiting cultivates trust in God’s timing and an awareness of God’s presence, even in moments of uncertainty
During Advent, many churches will light candles on an Advent wreath — one for each week, and there are various themes, one variant symbolising hope, peace, joy, and love. Each flickering flame grows the light as we approach Christmas, a beautiful reminder that God’s light shines steadily in the darkness, even if its fullness is not yet realised
But how do we wait well? Advent encourages us to slow down, and perhaps say "no" to the things that distract us from Jesus, and say "yes" to the gift that God wants us to experience. Waiting well means not only preparing for Christ’s coming at Christmas but also for his return at the end of time
Advent teaches us that the act of waiting is transformative. It deepens our reliance on God, refines our hearts, and prepares us to receive God’s light with joy. As we journey through this season, may we embrace the sacredness of waiting, trusting that in God’s perfect time, the darkness will be overcome, and God’s light will shine in all its glory
This Advent let us wait well - expectant, hopeful, and ready to welcome the light that transforms the world
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