Tuesday, November 28, 2017

ADVENT: WHAT IS IT?


The word advent comes from the Latin word meaning “coming”. Many churches and many denominations observe the Advent Season, the Christmas season, to celebrate the coming of our Lord Jesus as the babe in Bethlehem. It also has some reference and meaning connected to the Second Coming of Christ. It is a very rich and meaningful word that can help in celebrating a very meaningful and important Biblical theme…the Coming of Christ.

So, let’s say it again. The Advent season reminds us of Jesus’ first coming as a Holy Babe in Bethlehem and it reminds of us His second coming as King of Kings and Lord of Lords. So far, so good, right? The very Latin word for advent is a translation of the Greek word “parousia” the Word we usually associate with the Second Coming. But this isn’t a Greek or Latin lesson. It is a call to worship and reflect. That is strong theologically.

The fact that Jesus came the first time as the babe at Bethlehem and He will come the second time as King of Kings can be a moot point without the “third coming”. If Jesus Christ does not come into your heart and life as Savior and Lord then you personally miss the greatest Coming of all time and could potentially miss the next greatest Coming of all time. I hope our Lord comes to your heart daily as you seek Him like the wise men and as you worship Him as the Shepherds did.

When we gather this Christmas season we will observe Advent. Our theme this Advent season is Simple Christmas. It is a call to remember the reason for the season. It is an opportunity to celebrate His birth…the Advent. It is a reminder to be charitable and an opportunity to bless others. Enjoy the lights and remember He is the Light of the World. Revel in the music for what it is…worship of the Son of God becoming flesh. Intentionally spend time with family and friends. Consider reaching out to someone, say a little different than you. Help them celebrate the advent of the Babe so one day they might celebrate their own advent of the Savior.

Advent…what’s not to love? Simple Christmas…I love the idea!

Pastor Tom