Day 1
What comes to mind when you think of Advent? Do you picture chocolates hidden behind numbered doors on a calendar? Maybe you imagine the glow of candles and the scent of evergreen wreaths. Perhaps you have heard the word Advent, but the wreaths, candles, and calendars leave you a bit mystified. Let’s start our Christmas season by growing our understanding of Advent.
The word “Advent” originates from the Latin word “adventus”, which means “coming.” At the heart of Advent is an invitation to set aside time each day to remember the sacrifice and gifts Jesus gives by coming to earth for us. Advent is also the season of looking forward to Jesus coming to earth again to make all things new.
For centuries, churches around the world have observed the season of Advent. Traditions vary across churches and cultures, but everyone shares the common goal of spending time intentionally reflecting on Jesus and His arrival.
Author C. S. Lewis reminds us, “The son of God became a man to enable men to become sons of God.”
We all know waiting, especially for something special, can be hard. Advent, which begins four Sundays before Christmas Day and ends on Christmas Eve, helps us wait well by keeping our focus on Jesus’ birth. Our hope is that you and your family maintain your focus on Jesus by integrating an Advent tradition with your Christmas celebration.
Consider
- Do you have a special tradition that helps you focus on Jesus during the Advent season?
- The Bible repeatedly reminds us of the importance of loving our neighbors. Do you know your neighbors’ traditions? If not, take time this season to learn them and share your own.