“I wait for the Lord, my soul waits and in his word I hope; my soul waits for the Lord more than those who watch for the morning . . . For with the Lord there is steadfast love and with him is great power to redeem.” (Psalm 130:5-7)
This weekend we begin the season of Advent–a time of watchfulness and waiting, preparation and promise, celebration and fulfillment. When Christians first began to celebrate the birth of Jesus, it seemed logical for them to prepare for it with great care, and so they observed the four weeks before Christmas as Advent–a time to intentionally focus on the coming of Jesus–not only in his first advent, as a baby in Bethlehem, but also in his second coming, as King in glory. For these early followers of Jesus, Advent also provided an opportunity to reflect on Jesus’ coming into their lives each and everyday, through His Holy Spirit and through Word and sacrament.
Advent is still a time of preparation and waiting. For four weeks, we are called to intentionally prepare for Jesus’ coming–and to actively watch for his return. The above verse from Psalm 130 expresses the anticipation and hope of the Advent season. And so, instead of singing “Away in a Manger” and other Christmas carols at the beginning of December, we sing different songs–songs which capture this spirit of waiting. Songs like: “Come, thou long-expected Jesus” and “O come, O come, Emmanuel.” With each passing week our anticipation and excitement builds as we watch, wait, and pray.
Advent is a time of hope and renewal. It is our hope at Living Waters that this Advent season will be an opportunity for all of us to allow God to guide us into discovering deeper riches in our faith, as we watch and wait for the One in whom we find steadfast love and great power to redeem. Jesus doesn’t have to get lost in the business of the season. God is always present in our lives. The One whom we prepare for–the One who has saved and forgiven us–is already here. Emmanuel–God with us–is here right now, reflected in the love we share, the hospitality that we offer, and the joy that moves us to celebration and thanks.
Below you will find links to the Rector’s Advent Letter; a list of Advent & Christmas Activities at Living Waters; and an Advent Calendar of daily Scripture readings. May these resources be a help and blessing to you.
Maran Atha: Come, Lord Jesus, come quickly!