This Sunday is the first Sunday in Advent. The word Advent is drawn from a Latin word meaning “coming” or “arrival.” During this season, we look back to the first advent of Jesus and await His second advent. The first time He came in humility. Next time, He will come in glory. This season is for reflection and expectation. Make room for each over the next month. It is easy to be distracted by what is loud and bright. These things are not, in and of themselves, bad. Knowing this will be the case, however, make time to praise God for the birth of Jesus and pray that He would return soon.
The way our culture celebrates the Holidays has a way of preoccupying our hearts and minds. Everything seems busier and brighter. There is shopping and parties. We’re told we need more and more. This year, I want us to ask, “What do we really need more of this Christmas?” Sunday, we’ll start an Advent series called “More Christmas” where we ask that question. I believe it’s important to be with brothers and sisters-in-Christ every Sunday, but especially during a season so focused on Christ and now full of so many distractions, I hope you will make it your priority to be in church. These will be good Sundays together as we celebrate the birth of the Savior and eagerly await His return.
