Advent Awakens Us

Recently I saw a picture of an ornament and the caption read “it was never meant to be a burden.”I thought about how often we get caught up in preparing our homes by decorating, baking, purchasing and wrapping presents to go under the tree. Most every year probably. Christmas should not be a burden. Years ago I began having everything bought, wrapped and under the tree by the weekend before Thanksgiving so I could enjoy the season. This works well for me and we love having the tree up for a while to enjoy. Our Christmas tree represents hope to me. 

Advent is a time of great expectation while we prepare our hearts to receive the gift of Jesus Christ. Advent reminds us of the hope we have in Jesus. Isaiah 9:6, “For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders. And he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.” The second week focuses on preparation. God is still working in our hearts to prepare us for Jesus’ second coming! The third week we celebrate the coming of Jesus. The final week celebrates God’s peace and love. He is our Hope, Peace and Joy! 

Let’s be excited like little children on Christmas Eve, an anticipation that is so great that we cannot go to sleep, knowing that Jesus is coming again. As Advent people, our anticipation does not stop in four weeks but we continue to anticipate our Savior’s arrival. Advent awakens us! 

“Let’s approach Christmas with an expectant hush, rather than a last minute rush.”