The season of Advent is rich in reminders of the true meaning of the coming of Christ. The ancient hymns of Advent, such as “O Come, O Come, Emmanuel”, and “O Come, Divine Messiah,”  are some of the most beautiful that we have, and  customs such as the lighting of the candles of the Advent Wreath are memorable expressions of our faith, and of the hope in the midst of struggle which allows us to flourish joyfully as disciples of Jesus, whose coming we celebrate at Christmas, and prepare for in Advent. This is not only a joyful, but also a penitential season since,  if we are honest with ourselves, we must admit that we are not really ready to meet the Lord who comes.