When I was young, my mom used to tell me a story about a little boy standing at the foot of a great mountain. Full of curiosity, he cupped his hands around his mouth and shouted, “Hello!” A moment later, the same word came echoing back—“Hello!”—bouncing across the cliffs. Delighted, he tried again. “Who are you?” And the mountain answered, “Who are you?” What amazed him most was realizing that the mountain gave back exactly what he offered. His own voice shaped what returned to him.

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The First Sunday of Advent marks the beginning of a new liturgical year and the season of preparation for the coming of Christ. It is a time of hope, anticipation, and invitation. We are challenged to prepare and ready ourselves.

There are two common messages we will hear until Christmas.

First message: Santa Claus is coming to town. Translation: Buy! Buy! Buy!

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