Advent: Come, Lord Jesus

A Season of Hope and Expectation

Advent, which means "coming" in Latin, is a season of anticipation, preparation, and hope for Christians around the world. It marks the beginning of the liturgical year and serves as a time of spiritual reflection leading up to the celebration of the birth of Jesus Christ on Christmas Day. Advent is a period of great significance, where believers are reminded of the profound message that encapsulates the heart of Christianity: "Come, Lord Jesus."

Advent invites us to imitate the waiting and preparation that characterized the world before Jesus' birth. As Christians, we are encouraged to prepare our hearts, minds, and lives for the arrival of our Savior. Just as Mary and Joseph prepared to receive the Christ child, Advent is a season to examine our lives and seek reconciliation, renewal, and spiritual growth.

This period of waiting serves as a poignant reminder of the yearning humanity had for a Savior, a yearning that is just as relevant today. In our fast-paced world, Advent encourages us to slow down and refocus on the essential elements of our faith: hope, peace, joy, and love.

As we light the candles on the Advent wreath and contemplate the prophecies, we are called to embrace hope, peace, joy, and love and are encouraged to focus on the miracle of Christ's coming into the world, a message that transcends time and culture. In the midst of our preparations for the Christmas season, let us remember the central theme of Advent: the longing for the Messiah and the ultimate hope our cry, “Come, Lord Jesus” brings to humanity.

Advent Blessings to you and your family,

Pastor Lauren J. Wrightsman