Advent 2017

Sunday December 3 is the first Sunday in Advent. Our word “advent” derives from the Latin “adventus” which means “coming”. The Christian, during this season in the Christian calendar, is oriented to the coming of the Lord. Advent is a penitential season which leads us up to Christmas Eve and into Christmas Day.

As travelers must journey through country to their home – country which is often rough, difficult, and unknown – so too this season leads us upon a similar path. In truth, this not a path we have chosen. And choosing has little to do with it. It is a gift and to step upon it is to enter into God’s grace.

The first Psalm reading of Advent is taken from Psalm 80. There we find these words: “Shepherd of Israel, you who lead Joseph like a flock; you who sit enthroned between the cherubim, shine forth before Ephraim, Benjamin and Manasseh. Awaken your might; come and save us. Restore us, O God; make your face shine upon us.” This prayer is for the Lord – the Shepherd – to come and arrive, to be with His people, to fill them with the life, hope, and peace.

And so the season of Advent. Some things are so true and good there is nothing to do but make a season out of them.

Yours,

Pastor Brooks