Inspired by. . . the arrival
Inspired by. . . the arrival
Is there something that you're looking forward to with eager anticipation?
When I was young, summer vacation and Christmas topped the list of most anticipated events. As time goes on, weddings and babies mark important and, much anticipated milestones in our lives. But not all of us get married, not all of us have children. And, I realize, that not all of us celebrate Christmas.
But Christmas IS the ONE event that celebrates ALL of us.
Imagine God's growing anticipation as He carefully prepared and planed to reveal -- to send, His Son, the Savior of ALL mankind – to earth. There are hints, some subtle, some not so subtle, all through scripture, beginning in Genesis 3 of this much anticipated event.
Advent is the final crescendo of this great anticipation. And every year it fills me with JOY, excitement, HOPE and thanksgiving. It is a season, a holiday, like no other. And it is one that everyone in the world can identify with and celebrate as their own. Because Christ was given to ALL mankind.
My dear friend, Margo, said this about Advent:
The word Advent means "coming" or "arrival." The focus of the entire season is the celebration of the birth of Jesus the Christ in his First Advent, and the anticipation of the return of Christ the King in his Second Advent. Thus, Advent is far more than simply marking a 2,000 year old event in history. It is celebrating a truth about God, the revelation of God in Christ whereby all of creation might be reconciled to God. Advent also symbolizes the spiritual journey of individuals and a congregation, as they affirm that Christ has come, that He is present in the world today, and that He will come again in power.
There are many different ways to celebrate Advent. Some are, and should be, very fun. Like Jacquie Lawson's animated advent calendars. These beautifully animated calendars have been a tradition in my home for the last three years. Advent calendars are a fun way to count down the days before Christmas. I've shared with you in the past the beautiful advent calendar my Nana made for me when I was a child.
And I've started a pin board to keep track of all the wonderful Advent calendar ideas I've found through the years!
Celebrating Advent can also, and should be, solemn, reflective and thankful. Some of the examples on my pin board include DIY Advent Candle wreaths, which are a meaningful way to celebrate the four Sunday's of Advent.
There are wonderful devotional books available, too. Watch for the Light, is one I would definitely recommend.
And, if you're still with me, I would love for you to join our online bible study group for our upcoming Advent Study: Keeping our Hearts Focused on Jesus.
We have a private Facebook page set up for the group. If you're interested, send me an email and I'll send you an invite to the group!
However you and your family choose {or not} to celebrate Advent, I pray that the JOY and excitement of this fast approaching season will stir your hearts and minds with anticipation of His arrival.
With anticipation,
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