Preparing for Christmas

"O Wisdom, you came forth from the mouth of the Most High, and reached from end to end, and disposed of all things sweetly and mightily: come and teach us the way of prudence" (Traditional "O" Antiphon). Beginning today, December 17 and going to December 24, we begin our preparation for the Nativity of Our Lord. One of the ways that we prepare is with the "O" Antiphons. According to Magnificat, "The great "O" Antiphon verses traditionally sung before and after the Canticle of Mary each evening at vespers, begin this evening. The popular Advent hymn 'O Come, O Come, Emmanuel' paraphrases them" (258). In the first antiphon, we pray for Wisdom and that we may be taught the ways of prudence. As this passage says, "Oh, the depth of the riches and wisdom and knowledge of God! How inscrutable are his judgments and how unsearchable his ways" (Rom. 11:33)! Wisdom is a Gift of the Holy Spirit that we receive at Confirmation! We pray that it will be a gift that guides us in all that we do. May God open our minds and hearts to receive wisdom and prepare for the birth of Our Lord! Have a blessed day!!!