Monday, December 4, 2023
Advent originates from Latin, meaning “coming.” Initially, Advent was a time of fasting and penance, anticipating the Messiah’s second coming. It wasn’t until the Middle Age that Advent was tied to the first coming of Christ, and its connection with Christmas remains.
“Come Thou Long Expected Jesus” by Charles Wesley
Come, thou long expected Jesus,
Born to set thy people free;
From our fears and sins release us,
Let us find our rest in thee.
Today, we are positioned between two Advents. Prior to Christ’s birth, the Jewish people eagerly awaited God’s promised Messiah, clinging to the hope of the prophecies that God would restore his wayward people. Today, we are waiting for his second advent. Christ has defeated death and ensured the final victory, yet evil is still destroying the world we live in. We anticipate the day when Jesus returns.
Israel's strength and consolation,
Hope of all the earth thou art;
Dear desire of every nation,
Joy of every longing heart.
During Advent, we both commemorate what Christ did for us when he came to earth as a frail human baby and also anticipate the day when he victoriously returns. We are living in the “already and not yet.” Death has been defeated, but we still live in a fallen world.
Born thy people to deliver,
Born a child and yet a King,
Born to reign in us forever,
Now thy gracious kingdom bring.
As we prepare our hearts to celebrate Christ’s first Advent, we remember he is also our future hope.
By thine own eternal Spirit
Rule in all our hearts alone;
By thine all sufficient merit,
Raise us to thy glorious throne.
Just as the first advent came offering light after a dark time in ancient Israel, we too live in a dark time.
Isaiah 9:2 (NIV)
The people walking in darkness have seen a great light; on those living in the land of deep darkness a light has dawned.
But we have hope—Christ will return to rule and reign forever.
Revelation 21:6-7 (NIV)
6 He said to me: “It is done. I am the Alpha and the Omega, the Beginning and the End. To the thirsty I will give water without cost from the spring of the water of life. 7 Those who are victorious will inherit all this, and I will be their God and they will be my children.
Questions:
Did you know that Advent was more than just tied to Christmas? Have you celebrated Advent in the past? What is one way you can more intentionally enter into this season to anticipate his return?
Next Steps:
As you enter into the Advent season, remember that we are not only celebrating the birth of Christ but also his second coming.
Spend time this season reading through:
Prayer:
Heavenly Father, I am in awe of the love you have for your sinful people. You entered into our world and took on our frailty. You suffered unjustly and showed us what it meant to truly love. Thank you for entering into our darkness and shining a light on us. As we enter into the Christmas season, remind us that we are also anticipating your second coming. Help us never lose sight of the future we will one day enjoy in your presence for eternity. Amen.
Parent Resource:
Read Luke 1:26-31 together as a family. God’s plan for Christmas surprised everyone. If you could plan Christmas this year exactly the way you wanted, what would it look like?
Series Theme Verse:
Psalm 16:11 (ESV)
You make known to me the path of life; in your presence there is fullness of joy; at your right hand are pleasures forevermore.
This post was written by Julie Mabus, a regular contributor to the LivingItOut.