WARNING…WARNING: ADVENT VIRUS
Be on the alert for symptoms of inner Hope, Peace, Joy and Love. The hearts of a great many have already been exposed to this virus and it is possible that people everywhere could come down with it in epidemic proportions. This could pose a serious threat to what has, up to now, been a fairly stable condition of negativity and cynicism in the world.
Some signs and symptoms of The Advent Virus:
- A tendency to think and act spontaneously rather than on fears based on past experiences.
- An unmistakable ability to enjoy each moment.
- A loss of interest in judging other people.
- A loss of interest in interpreting the actions of others.
- A loss of interest in conflict.
- A loss of the ability to worry. (This is a very serious symptom.)
- Frequent, overwhelming episodes of appreciation.
- Contented feelings of connectedness with others and nature.
- Frequent attacks of smiling.
- An increasing tendency to let things happen rather than make them happen.
- An increased susceptibility to the love extended by others as well as the uncontrollable urge to extend it.
Please send this warning out to all your friends. This virus has the potential to affected many and transform lives.
—Adapted from 2011 anonymous email
Dear friends,
In Advent, we are reminded that our faith in God’s love is like a “vaccination” against the messages of fear, anger, hopelessness and despair that bombard us and can infect our souls. That hope should come to us in the form of a tiny child is God’s greatest gift—and the true reason for this gift-giving season.
Wherever you find yourself this year at Advent, may hope, peace, joy and love bring you healing and wholeness.
With prayers for a blessed Christmas,
Karen Nell
O come, thou Day-spring, come and cheer
Our spirits by thine advent here;
Disperse the gloomy clouds of night,
And death’s dark shadows put to flight.
Rejoice! Rejoice!
Emmanuel shall come to thee, O Israel!