Advent: reflect on peace and love in uncertain times

Advent: reflect on peace and love in uncertain times

The Advent season has already started, although the official start will only be due next Sunday. Advent markets are open everywhere, which invite you to linger with festive lights, delicacies and a happy atmosphere. In most households, the first candle on the Advent wreath is lit on the first Sunday of Advent, while the anticipation for Christmas is growing. The advent calendar with its 24 doors ensures a little surprise every day until Christmas Eve. These customs are more than just traditions; They symbolize the waiting for the arrival of Jesus in Bethlehem and the message of peace, which is the spirit of this time.

The dual meaning of the Advent

Advent means "arrival". But what does this arrival mean for us today? There is a deep contradiction between the festive atmosphere of the Christmas markets and the urgent concerns that many people plague. Economic uncertainty, rising bankruptcies and geopolitical conflicts throw shadows on the contemplative time. The question arises: Who will bring the warring parties to a table to end a bloodshed? In addition, climate change threatens our future and sustainable solutions are required.

Despite all of these challenges, the question remains: How would we experience Christmas if we really thought about its deeper meaning? Jesus not only invites us to a festive meal, but also for a new beginning that is characterized by compassion, forgiveness and love. In times of uncertainty, this message could be particularly valuable. If we get involved, we could find ways to stand together in difficult times, to support each other and to work together for a better future.

In an interview with the newspaper today, Cardinal Christoph Schönborn addresses these important aspects and invites you to use Advent season as an opportunity for reflection and reflection on the core messages of Christmas. He reminds us that the message of Christ is anchored in his message of peace and that these values ​​of compassion and understanding are urgently needed in today's world.

It remains to be seen how these messages will arrive at people in the coming weeks and whether they can offer inspiration for real changes. Advent could therefore not only be a time of waiting, but also a call for active participation in the creation of a more peaceful world.