Advent - A Time of Waiting and Reflection

Advent - A Time of Waiting and Reflection
December 19, 2021

As many of you know, Advent is a time of waiting for the birth of Christ and it is also a time for refelction about the previous year. As this year comes to a close, I am very aware of all God's blessings in the past 12 months. 

I continue to enjoy my time in seminary. Finals are completed for my first semester of theology studies. The semester went well - classes were wonderful, my parish assignment has been rewarding, the fraternity in my class is beautiful, and I have experienced a lot of growth on my own faith journey.  

One of the biggest movements in my life recently has been a clearer understanding of the beauty of celibacy. Priests are called to a life of celibacy, sonething which is often misunderstood in today's world. Celibacy is a real gift. In a deepening understanding of celibacy, a man continues to fall in love with the Lord and is always focused on the love which comes from that relationship. A man who fully knows what the gift of celibacy means, finds fullfilment in the sacraments, in time spent with God, and through healthy familial relationships and true friendship. While I continue to pray with what celibacy truly means, I am comforted knowing that the Lord loves me and wants a relationship with me and I want to spend my life in communion with Him.

Another big life decision for me came around Thanksgiving. After much prayer and reflection, it has become clear to me that the time has come for me to give up drinking alcohol. (Not because I have a problem, becaue it is the best decision for me health wise).  In the past, it would not be uncommon to me for have a drink at the end of the day, especially after a long or bad day/week. It is easy for me to have a drink if things are tough or difficult. I do not want to have to confront that challenge if, God-willing, I am ordained a priest. In order to be healthier and able to live a fruitful priesthood, this decision is for the best. As alcohol can also increase the symptoms of anxiety, I am hoping that this decision is able to lessen my anxiety as well. I ask for your prayerful support in this endeavor. God is good!

In the midst of this Advent Season, I am prayerfully and patiently waiting for the birth of the Messiah. I am always heartened by our salvation coming in the form of a tiny baby. God became flesh so that we might gain salvation, eternally with him. How profound that the savior of the world came to us as a baby, helpless and weak. And now, we go to him, helpless and weak, hoping for answers and seeking consolation. 

It is my prayer that all of you have a blessed Christmas with family and freinds. May you be filled with the peace Christ brings to us. I hope everyone is able to celebrate the traditions they have  more normally this year than last year. I know for our family, we are looking forward to watching a few movies together, eating a good meal, and hiding the baby Jesus from the manger (sorry Mom!). 

Thank you all for the continued prayers and support! This journey would not be possible without all of you. God Bless!

Merry Christmas,
Jake