Rain down righteousness, you heavens; let the skies pour it down from above. Let the earth open up so that salvation may blossom forth, and let justice also spring up; I, the Lord, have created it.
Is 45:8
The Advent parts of the Office Book are my favourite. Every year from November onwards, I look forward to the first Vespers of the first Advent, because then comes the time of the Scripture readings and antiphons that touch me deep inside.
During Advent we have time to prepare ourselves and to open our hearts wide to God who becomes man out of infinite love for us. We can sing together the songs that sing of longing for God and waiting for salvation. And we can silently let the lyrics and melodies resound.
“Dew the heavens and clouds rain down the righteous!” cried the people in anxious nights, to whom God gave the promise that one day they would see the mediator himself and enter heaven; for the gate was closed until the Saviour came forth. (Advent hymn)
Yes, we are in anxious nights. But we are not without hope, for we have been given the promise that righteousness and salvation will spring forth.
Sr. Astrid
Photo by Sr. Adelheid Scheloske SAC: Marienborn, December 2017
