Preparation and Prayer: The Advent of Our Lord
Today I am home waiting out a winter storm that may bring us up to 18 inches of white fluffy snow. As I sit looking out the window, my mind has been absently thinking about the details of the upcoming holiday season. Have I ordered this? I should start working on that. Hmm, I wonder if so and so is going to stop by? As a woman and mother, planning is a big part of my life. And, I tend to over plan!
However, this year my planning is taking a somewhat different perspective. I’ve been thinking more and more about advent. Christmas gets most of the attention, and for good reason, what a reason to celebrate! Advent is often a passing thought as we strain for the big day on December 25. Advent focuses on the expectant waiting and preparation for the coming of the Christ child. But more than that, it is also our expectant waiting and preparation for his return. Advent is an all-day, everyday state of being for those of us who believe in Jesus Christ.
Thinking about this provides me with a lot of hope this year. The past several years have been tough, to say the least. Pandemics, divided politics, war, and the like seem to permeate our every day, blocking out the sun and joy of his truth. As I think about this holiday season, I am praying that God can change my perspective and bring the celebration of advent to my every day, not just a short time near the holidays. He is coming back. When, I don’t know, but his word promises his return. How can I prepare for his return? Seek him always, in everything, even the sad and disparaging bits. Pray without ceasing. Cast aside my own selfish ways and become obedient to him, daily, hourly, moment by moment.
“In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. He was with God in the beginning. Through him all things were made; without him nothing was made that has been made. In him was life, and that life was the light of all mankind.The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it.” (John 1:1-5, NIV).
Contributed by Liz Hunt
For more information on Advent, please read through our articles from last year.
Advent: Peace – Rhubarb & Rubbish (rhubarbandrubbish.com)
Advent: Joy – Rhubarb & Rubbish (rhubarbandrubbish.com)
