December 2023: Season of Arrival
The Word became flesh and blood,
and moved into the neighborhood.
We saw the glory with our own eyes,
the one-of-a-kind glory,
like Father, like Son,
Generous inside and out,
true from start to finish.
John 1:14
We are officially in the Advent season.
Advent means “arrival,” and this season is looking towards THE ARRIVAL of Jesus, which culminates on Christmas day when we celebrate the birth of our Lord.
Personally, I did not celebrate or observe Advent growing up. Every December, I set my sights on gifts, Christmas lights, and hot chocolate. It hasn’t been until recent years that I have begun to participate in Advent.
What does participation even look like?
I have become more aware of how the global church observes what is called “the Liturgical Calendar.” This calendar doesn’t begin in January like our modern calendars because it is based on movements the church observes rather than being built on months.
Advent happens to be the beginning on this yearly cycle. We as the church, honor and observe the beginning on our year, with the beginning of our faith. That all happens with the arrival of Jesus.
While we know the Bible begins in Genesis, we would not be part of the entire Biblical story if it wasn’t for the arrival of our Messiah in Jesus. Jesus did not come as a grown adult but in the vulnerability of a baby.
That means that this season requires us to partner with the church around the world in preparing for the arrival of Jesus. The celebration of Jesus’ arrival, means that our lives cannot continue as normal, but our attention and care are shifted to prepare ourselves for the king.
During the next few months, I want to challenge you all to first, slow down. I know the holidays have become synonymous with business and chaos. Think Home Alone, Kevin McAllister is left behind as his family rushes to their European vacation. We don’t want to miss the arrival of Jesus, because we got caught up in all of the to-do’s.
Secondly, reflect. We can’t truly appreciate the arrival of Jesus if we just show up unprepared. Jesus answers the deep longing and hope that the Israelites had in exile, the hope we all have found in Jesus as disciples, and the hope we have that he is coming again. May your reflection on Jesus ground you in the beauty of Advent.
Lastly, do not go through Advent without celebrating! Our king is coming! This is not a somber month, but a month of eager anticipation. Prepare your home, your life, your heart, and your soul for the arrival and celebration of King Jesus.
