Take time to be aware that in the very midst of our busy preparations for the celebration of Christ’s birth in ancient Bethlehem, Christ is reborn in the Bethlehems of our homes and daily lives. Take time, slow down, be still, be awake to the Divine Mystery that looks so common and so ordinary, yet is wondrously present. Edward Hayes

I love Christmas carols, and one of my favorites of the traditional carols I grew up with is “O Little Town of Bethlehem.” I love how it talks about the stillness of the town and how quiet everything feels as the Christ is born. Other lovely songs in both English and German talk about the stillness of the forest in a snowfall at this time of year. How wonderful to be reminded to seek out stillness and quiet in the midst of the hustle and bustle of our preparation for the holidays.

Spiritual Contemplation: How will you find stillness and take time to slow down during this season?

Affirmation: I invite in the stillness and the quiet as I slow down and take time to nourish my soul with the Presence of the Christ Child.