This Sunday is the second week of Advent in this new Christian year!!!  Last week we introduced you to our Advent series entitled "MARY HAD A BABY" based on the book by Cheryl Kirk-Duggan and Marilyn E. Thornton.  Each week we will hear a different spiritual done in a variety of formats by different people/groups.

This week's spiritual "RISE UP SHEPHERD AND FOLLOW" is more of a sing along arrangement.  

It may sound as though we are getting a little "ahead of the game" with this spiritual and focus, but truly we are not.  During this season of Advent we are invited to follow the journey to Bethlehem and beyond.  What does it mean for us to "join the journey"?  How are we to approach the season of preparation and anticipation with attitudes that are "WATCHING, WAITING AND WONDERING"?    Does this mean that we sit idly by with our hands crossed staring into the atmosphere?  ABSOLUTELY NOT!!!  But let's see what it is we are really to be doing.  Let's try to answer some of these questions.

REFLECTION:  "The wisemen used the stars; Spirituals had double meanings, often following the stars to the north on the underground railroad.  Follow the star that leads us to peace. Rise up to be the presence of God.  Do it right now.  React to the opportunities immediately." - Bob