Ambitious about Advent? Me too! Since yesterday marked the beginning of Advent, we have a bit of catching up to do. Here’s the scoop. This year Advent falls on the four Sundays before Christmas: 11/27, 12/4, 12/11, and 12/18.
Advent is the beginning of the Christian liturgical year and is commemorated on each four Sundays before Christmas running through Christmas Eve, followed by the twelves days of Christmas (12/25–1/5, the journey of the Magi to the baby Jesus) and Epiphany (1/6, the celebration feast of the revelation of God the Son as a human being in Jesus Christ, the visit of the Magi, Jesus’ baptism, and the wedding at Cana).
Advent represents the coming of Christ in three ways:
- Commemorating His birth and walk as man and savior
- Celebrating His presence in us now through the Holy Spirit
- Preparation for His return as judge.
The Western term “Advent” comes from the Latin word “adventus,” meaning “coming,” which comes from the Greek word “parousia,” meaning “second coming of Christ.” Common practices during this season include Advent calendars, daily devotionals, fasting, wreaths, candles, and reading from the Old Testament. The four candles are lit one each Sunday of Advent and the fifth on Christmas Eve or Christmas Day. Advent is a time of prayer, commemoration, celebration, and preparation.
Ambitiously anticipating Advent? One of my friends shared this great resource for you and your family to begin TODAY!
I hope you will join me in preparing our hearts for Christmas. Abide in hope, peace, joy, and love as we welcome the Baby Jesus.
I am praying for you,
Sheryl
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