Season of Advent, Day 2

Season of Advent

Hope, Day 2

Reading:

“A liminal space is the time between the “what was” and the “next.” It is a place of transition, a season of waiting, and not knowing. Liminal space is where all transformation takes place, if we learn to wait and let it form us.”^[1]

Reflection:

A limen is a threshold – something that separates here from there. As we approach times of change, we enter liminal space, sometimes willingly, other times kicking and screaming. Liminal space may come upon us in the form of a hopeful opportunity that we can accept or refuse. Liminal space, however, is not usually well-defined in terms of its effect on our life, and once we cross the threshold, the new path seldom allows a return to the way things were.

Entering Advent intentionally is to enter liminal space as a conscious choice. If we choose not to enter the Advent season in an intentional way, Christmas will likely continue as it always has – lots of excitement, lots of stress, lots of expense – and once over, life will mostly return to the way it was before. And for many, that is not necessarily a bad thing. When the status quo is good, most people are disinclined to risk upsetting it. Unfortunately, the status quo is never transformational, and we cannot hope for a deeper experience of Christmaswithout risking uncomfortable circumstances.

When John the Baptist prepared folks for the coming of Jesus, he told them to Repent, which means to turn around or to change – to transform. Repentance is a necessary prerequisite to following the life and teachings of Jesus. Unless we consciously change something in ourselves, unless we make room for something new, we cannot hope to be drawn closer to the Christ in this season or ever. It is not that the gift is withheld but that we will remain incapable of receiving it.

Closing Meditation:

Close with a few minutes of silent meditation. Imagine a liminal time in your life and what changed because of it.

Journal the thoughts or feelings that arise.

This daily series, Contemplative Christmas, is replacing my weekly Life Notes until January 6, 2026, when my weekly blog will resume. The thoughts expressed here are mine. To engage with me: ghildenbrand@outlook.com.

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[1] Jon DeWaal and Shonnie Scott, “What Is a Liminal Space?” Liminal Space, http://inaliminalspace.org/about-us/what-is-a-liminal-space/. Reprinted in Crisis Contemplation, Barbara A Holmes, CAC Publishing, 2021, p. 128.