We all dread opening our front door to find a policeman bringing bad news of an accident involving someone close to us. The anxious waiting which follows is agony. Will it be good news or bad? Could the tragedy have been avoided?
Even waiting for a happy event brings its anxious moments. Will it go according to plan? Have we overlooked a vital detail? Waiting is always an uncomfortable experience; hoping for the best and preparing for the worst. And while we wait we seem to shift gear into a state of suspended animation, anything we have to do seems dead and mechanical. We are in an emotional desert.
The readings throughout Advent shed light on this waiting-room of life. They reassure us that our waiting in Advent need not be a desert experience, full of anxiety and fear. Isaiah makes it clear that whatever our circumstances or ups and downs of life, our heavenly Father will step in and lead us home to love and safety.
John the Baptist tells us that Christ is coming to be with us. That is why our Advent waiting is unique. It is the only waiting in which there is no need for any anxiety or distress. Our heavenly Father is sending his Son to strengthen our weakness, to heal the wounds which make us bitter and unforgiving. And to help the desert of our lives blossom again.
John is not a policeman knocking on our door with frightening news. Rather he is a sign of God's great and eternal love. Our heavenly Father doesn't wish to "catch us on the hop". He wants us to know of his care and love. He taps us on the shoulder this Advent to remind us of his ever-faithful promises.