What is Advent, and Why Does it Matter?

Advent is a word often used around this time of year, and it simply means 'arrival.' Applied to the Christmas season and within a Christian context, it usually refers to the four weeks leading up to our celebration of Jesus' birth (or His arrival).

For December, we will be exploring why Advent matters and how it might be helpful for us as we desire to honor Christ in our celebrations and seek to capture the excitement and mystery of Christ's entrance into humanity.

Each week we will focus on a section from Psalm 119 that might help us center our thoughts and guide us as we meditate on the truths of God's word and this wondrous season (more on why Psalm 119 in a minute).

A simple question to get us started - What part does preparation play in our celebration of Christmas?

When I think about getting ready for Christmas, I usually think about the lights on the house, the travel plans, decorating, food, gifts we will give, etc. Most preparation begins around November, almost a month (or two) before Christmas day.

We might all agree that quite a bit of preparation goes into celebrating Christmas. So... how do we prepare spiritually for Christmas - not as easy a question to answer. That is precisely why Advent might help us this season - a way to prepare our hearts and minds beyond the typical trappings of our most commercialized holiday.

Now for Psalm 119. A massive Psalm of 176 verses saturated with wisdom akin to the book of Proverbs but with the rich language of lament, trust, and rescue. The backdrop of Psalm 119 is a view toward God's word (specifically the first five books of the OT) as a source of hope, instruction, protection, and wonder.

As we prepare to celebrate God's Word that became flesh and dwelt here among us, it seems fitting to spend the next month in a Psalm that invites us to consider the vital role of God's word in our world and daily lives.

I pray the opening verses of Psalm 119 will usher us into a season of preparation and allow us to capture a renewed sense of wonder.

Joyful are people of integrity,

who follow the instructions of the Lord.

Joyful are those who obey his laws

and search for him with all their hearts.

They do not compromise with evil,

and they walk only in his paths.

You have charged us

to keep your commandments carefully.

Oh, that my actions would consistently

reflect your decrees!

Then I will not be ashamed

when I compare my life with your commands.

As I learn your righteous regulations,

I will thank you by living as I should!

I will obey your decrees.

Please don’t give up on me! - Psalm 119:1–8

May the way we live offer God a kind of thanks!

Have a great weekend and we hope you will join us this Sunday!

-Bradley