Advent I: Clearing the airways.

I was recently in a home that had a Bluetooth speaker system. I strutted about with my phone in my pocket playing my favorite music for all to hear. That is, until I walked to a place where a stone fireplace blocked the signal. The music began to break up and static filled the air. I quickly realized what the problem was and moved to where nothing stood between my phone and the stereo, and the music returned.

As I began thinking about the season of Advent, which begins this Sunday, I realized that one of the purposes of Advent is to clear the airwaves. Those of us who consider themselves spiritual people believe a connection between God and ourselves is possible, as illusive or mysterious as it sometimes feels. Over time, however, things like the big stone fireplace get in between us and suddenly the signal begins breaking up and static fills the air. 

The obstacles come in many shapes and sizes. A packed schedule can certainly stand in the way, so can a cell phone that’s glued to our ear or ever before our eyes. Unhealthy relationships or seeking the wrong person’s approval can distract us, just as unhealthy habits can. 

Advent is a time to look at what blocks the signal. It is a time to listen anew and move to where the signal is stronger, or remove what’s standing in the way. 

The good news is, with renewed effort, the signal returns and we can, as it is said in the Christmas season, “hear, again, the song of angels.”

Extra Credit:

Listen for God’s voice. Is the signal clear, or is it breaking up? What stands in the way, and what steps can you take (today, this week, this season) to clear the airways between you and God?