Compared to the contemplative time of Advent that I’m used to, Las Novenas was initially a bit of a shock to me. In place of Advent wreaths and O Come O Come Immanuel we have boisterous children clapping along to upbeat, and sometimes silly, songs. And yet as much as I love Advent, I find myself falling in love with Las Novenas as well. As different as the traditions are, they both ultimately offer that thing we all need this time of year: time to step away from the cares of the world, and prepare ourselves to celebrate the coming of our Savior.
As I complete my preparations for tomorrow’s Christmas Eve service, I keep asking myself “Am I ready?” But I don’t mean is my sermon ready to preach and do I have everything I need for the pageant. I mean, am I ready for the birth of the baby who changed everything? Am I ready for the coming of the one who brought light to the darkness and hope to the hopeless? Is my heart ready to welcome the Christ child once again?
On December 23 we are but a short distance from Bethlehem. Our yearly journey, whether it be Advent or Las Novenas, is almost complete. We are about to arrive. Are you ready?