First Sunday of Advent

I didn't grow up with the tradition of Advent. The church where Baird and I met introduced me to this centuries-old tradition. Over the years, I would sit in church the four Sundays before Christmas, watch the lighting of the candles, and listen to the meditation. I began to anticipate this special ritual.

For those who may not know, Advent is marked by a spirit of anticipation, of longing. The focus of the entire season is the celebration of the birth of Jesus the Christ in His First Advent, and the anticipation of the return of Christ the King in His Second Advent.

The first week of Advent focuses on expectation or hope. This expectation goes beyond counting down the days until the presents are opened. We look forward to the time when the Prince of Peace will bring true peace, justice and righteousness to this world.

Every night during Advent, our family lights candles, gathers around our manger scene, and recites the Christmas story from Luke 2:1-20 and Matthew 2:1-12. Then we read from The Advent Book. It's a time to reflect on what's truly important this time of year.