"And this is clearly the reason: you first loved us so that we might love you--not because you needed our love, but because we could not be what you created us to be, except by loving you." William of St. Thierry

God called us into existence, so that we could share in his divine life eternally. Since God's life is one of mutual love, the only way we could share in his life is by living also a life of love. To do this, God first loved us. not because we were deserving of his love, but because of who he is. Thus, the commandment of Jesus is that love God with our whole being and love others as he has loved us. Advent is another grace-time to respond and grow in this call of God to love. If we want to receive Christ in a fresh new way this Christmas, then prepare a place in our hearts with acts of intentional love for God and others. And he will come.