This is a season of expectation—and of expectations. We hear how John the Baptist had to set the record straight on who he wasn’t: no, not the Messiah; sorry, not Elijah either.

It’s the time of year for pageants. Schools and parishes will sponsor them, and many a reluctant or nervous child actor will arrive on cue as Mother Mary or vigilant spouse Joseph, a glorious array of angels or shy shepherds. We’ll have three be-robed kings too, and that’s just the standard cast.

There once was a man, his name John, sent by God to point out the way to the Life-Light. He came to show everyone where to look, who to believe in. John was not himself the Light; he was there to show the way to the Light.

There are so few ritual ceremonies in modern life anymore, especially ones that involve wearing a special costume. For many Catholics, baptism and marriage are the big two. For women, both involve wearing a beautiful (and often very expensive) white gown.

Lord Jesus, you are the light of the world. Help us to walk in your light.

A lot of people claim to know it all. If all can be known, why is the world such a mess? John the Baptist, who knew a lot more than most people, chose the way of humility.

Though it is still Advent, we’ve probably been to one or two Christmas parties already. Jumping the gun is unfortunate, because anticipation is so much part of joy.

Spiritual disciplines, whether ecstatic or ascetic, are an integral part of our experience of religious joy. —Rose Marie Berger, “Pursuing the Secret of Joy,” Sojourners