A new church year has begun! It is the season of ADVENT. Many Christians, and churches, misunderstand what Advent is all about and therefore lump it all together with Christmas. Advent and Christmas are intertwined but separate. The observance of Advent began about the 5th century. Back then, it was a time set aside for fasting and spiritual preparation of baptisms that would occur on January 6th, the Day of Epiphany. At that time Advent lasted about the same length as Lent – 40 days. Advent was changed to a four-week time period after it became connected with Jesus’ birth.
The term ‘Advent’ itself means “coming” or “arrival.” Because it precedes Christmas “many have misunderstood Advent to be exclusively a time to get ready to celebrate the coming of a child in Bethlehem. In fact, the primary focus of Advent is on what is popularly called “the second coming”. Thus, Advent concerns the future of the Risen One, who will judge wickedness and prevail over every evil…it is the celebration of the promise that Christ will bring an end to all that is contrary to the ways of God…”[1]
Stookey goes on to give a succinct definition of Advent by stating “We start the Advent observances with the future: “The reign of God is coming. Prepare!” We end with the past: “Messiah will be born in Bethlehem. Rejoice!”
The four Sundays in Advent, then, are a journey in which both the past and the future are proclaimed. We must look to the past historically as well as theologically to understand the present and the future. The meaning is deep and rich and can feed us spiritually as we look earnestly for Messiah to come. Let us desire that Messiah be born anew in our hearts during this season and in the hearts of others too! Advent prepares us for Christ’s coming at Bethlehem and at the end of time.
During this season, even as we decorate trees, shop for gifts, listen to beautiful holiday music, and revel in the sights and sounds of the season let us watch and wait to see the glory of the Lord. May this be the primary focus of our celebrations.
Shalom! Maranatha!
P.S. To assist you in your journey through Advent please visit my website for videos of lighting the Advent candles. www.dawnsgilmore.com
[1] Laurnece Hull Stookey. Calendar: Christ’s Time for the Church. Abingdon Press: Nashville. 1996
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