The word Advent comes from the Latin word adventus meaning ‘coming.’ It represents the period of time immediately before the ‘coming’ of Christ. Traditionally the church sets apart the 4 Sundays before Christmas as the Advent Season. During this season, we turn our attention to the promised Advents or ‘comings’ of Christ. Yes, Christ came once & we celebrate that fact of history & what it means. But he is also coming again & that has great significance for us, as well…
As we remember the Advents of Christ-one accomplished & one still to come, let this be a time marked by expectant waiting & preparation. Expectantly waiting for someone means that they will not surprise you by their arrival. But rather you are ready, prepared & expecting their coming. Every year, through Advent season Christ asks us, “Are you ready for my return? Are you living in a manner that says I am what is most important to you? Give an account of your life.” Friends, please take advantage of this season. If you’re not serving the lord, walking close to him or if you’re just plane cold in your spirit toward him. Consider it & during Advent turn toward him with fresh effort as you remember that he came & is also coming again!
Here are few suggestions for taking advantage of the Advent season:
- Make participation during the 4 Sundays of Advent a priority. Do not just attend or observe, but be actively involved in the worship of God. Sing with gusto. Pray with fervency. Bring the Lord an offering. Follow the message closely & then respond unreservedly to whatever the Lord prompts you with.
- Every Sunday evening of Advent gather the family together for ‘family worship.’ In our home, we actually light advent candles, give thanks, read the scriptures, sing & pray just like we do in church.
- During these 4 weeks determine to give the Lord a little extra of your private time & attention. Whatever you normally do, do it with a little more thoughtfulness. Show the Lord that you are sincere in what you say you believe. Let him see you making an effort to prepare yourself for his coming.
- Pick a name from the Angel Tree, pray for them & then out of Christian joy & generosity be a blessing to someone outside of your immediate family. Remember, joy to the world the Lord has come!
Christmas has always been my favorite time of the year, but being a follower of Christ has enhanced the holiday season so beautifully. You have wonderfully captured what the Advent season is all about. I am as you said turning toward Him with fresh effort as I remember that he came and is also coming again! Praise the Lord!!!
Incredible site!