The account is related about a group of American explorers who went to Africa, where they hired indiginous folk to be their guides.   The first day they rushed through the jungle.   And on the second day they were up at dawn, ready to push forward.   And likewise on the third, fourth, fifth, and sixth days.

On the seventh day, the American explorers were up again, anxious to get started.   But they noticed that their guides were lying very quietly in their places of rest.

"Come on," shouted the Americans, "we are in a hurry!"

But the lead guide replied quietly in his broken English, "We no go today.   We rest.   Let souls catch up with bodies."

Advent is a season to wait, reflect  and rest, in order to prepare for the greatest GIFT the world has ever received!    Our tendency, however, is to move ever faster, doing more and more especially during this Advent-Christmas Season.   How can we reflect upon the true meaning of this season without slowing down and reflecting?    We cannot.    How can we ever be ready for the arrival of the Christ child without intentional waiting and wondering?   We can't.    

This Advent, amidst all the shopping, partying, and going, may we carve out some time to let our souls catch up with our bodies.    Not just rest (although that is a good and right thing) but rest with reflection, introspection and prayer.