What is the most wonderful time of the year? Advent is my favorite.
I realize that outside the Christian world, people do not celebrate Advent. Four weeks of waiting and expectation? For what? 20 minutes of opening presents? Advent is all about the waiting and expectation of celebrating the birth of Jesus. It’s not about buying presents. It’s about being present. Each week is centered on a different theme. When I was growing up, we lit the candle on the Advent wreath before dinner and said a special prayer.
Let’s look at the weeks together.
Hope
Week one is about hope. Hope is our longing for someone or something. We as faith filled people are anticipating celebrating the birth of Christ. The one who is the light in our darkness. We can hope for other things as well, peace in our families, reconciliation, a more active faith life. What are you hoping for?
Peace
Week two is about peace. Jesus came to Earth to bring a kingdom of peace. I know the world does not look very peaceful at the moment, but what about the peace in your heart? Are you living in a spirit of contentment? I admit to struggling with this one from time to time. I want to know “what’s next” forgetting the the “right now” is pretty good.
Joy
Week three is about joy. It’s time to rejoice! We are going to celebrate the birth of a baby! What is more joyful than that. The first time a baby smiles or giggles, we can’t help but smile back. This one is the easiest for me- lot’s of things (and people) bring me joy. A beautiful sunrise/sunset, a hot cup of coffee, a surprise phone call from a friend. What brings you joy?
Love
This last week, often really short, only a day or two before Christmas Eve is about love. God loves us so much that He sent his son to show us the way. God’s love is unconditional. Ours often comes with conditions. How can we be more loving towards others?
This Advent season, in this season of miracles, I invite you to ponder the themes each week. Do you have hope, peace, joy, and love in your life? What are you waiting for? Are you hopeful, peaceful, joyful, and loving today? If not, that’s your assignment leading up to Christmas. When the 25th arrives, the best present you can give yourself (and others) is a heart full of hope, peace, joy, and love.
