Advent
OPENING PRAYER:
God, let us hear and be open to what you have to say to us today.
“But as for me, I will watch in hope for the Lord; I wait for God my Savior; My God will hear me.” - Micah 7:7
REFLECT:
The past two years have been difficult. We don’t need anyone to tell us that.
We enter Advent this year in an extended state from last year. We are tired and too often find ourselves divided and stressed by the world around us.
We are the weary world the song talk about.
As we enter this season, it can seem daunting to find joy or the energy to rejoice in the face of so much turmoil and strife.
APPLY:
Thankfully, Advent is designed to give us time and reason to focus – on what this season and, specifically, Christmas is all about.
Advent, in the midst of a year like this one, reminds us that we have much to rejoice about.
Yesterday was the official beginning of Advent – the period right before Christmas when we focus on the birth of Jesus and all that his arrival meant to the world. “Adventus” is a form of the Latin word that means “coming” or “to arrive.”
Advent is a time that we are intentional about focusing on Jesus and his arrival all those years ago. Instead of gifts, Santa, or even time off from school or work, we focus on the baby that was born and changed our stories forever.
CLOSING PRAYER:
God, as we enter Advent season, let our hearts and minds grip onto what Jesus has done for each of us. Give us pause and space to remember that we can celebrate the arrival of a baby that was sent to save this brokenness that we live in and give us hope for the good plans in store for us.
CONTINUED READING:
Luke 1:26-38