As we enter the season of Advent, we step into a time of anticipation and reflection. Advent, derived from the Latin word adventus, means “coming.” It is a season that calls us to prepare our hearts and minds for the celebration of Jesus’ birth while also looking forward to His promised return.
Advent is a reminder of God’s faithfulness through the ages—a season to pause, to reflect, and to make room for Christ in our busy lives. As we light the Advent candles each week, we mark themes of hope, peace, joy, and love—each one pointing us to the fulfillment of God’s promise in Jesus.
How can we participate in Advent?
1. Cultivate Hope
Advent begins with hope. Isaiah 9:6-7 proclaims: “For to us a child is born, to us a son is given; and the government shall be upon his shoulder, and his name shall be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.”
Reflecting on God’s promise to send a Savior encourages us to trust Him for the promises yet to come.
2. Embrace Peace
Jesus came to bring peace—not as the world gives, but the peace that reconciles us to God and each other. John 14:27 reminds us of His words: “Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you. Not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your hearts be troubled, neither let them be afraid.”
Advent is a time to seek peace through prayer, worship, and acts of reconciliation.
3. Rejoice in Joy
Joy is not dependent on our circumstances but on the steadfast love of our Savior. Luke 2:10-11 captures this beautifully:
“And the angel said to them, ‘Fear not, for behold, I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all the people. For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord.’”
Make time to rejoice in the truth of His coming and share that joy with others.
4. Rest in Love
God’s love was revealed in the gift of His Son. As we read in John 3:16: “For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life.”
Advent invites us to reflect on this love and extend it to those around us.
A Special Advent Reading Plan
This year, we encourage you to dive deeper into the meaning of Advent through the Promised Messiah Bible reading plan from Raising Everyday Disciples. This plan offers a daily reflection on Scripture, focusing on the promises of God fulfilled in Jesus. You can download the plan below.
Let us journey together through this season, preparing our hearts to celebrate the birth of our Savior while longing for His glorious return. May this Advent be a time of deep connection with God and renewed faith in His promises.