Advent becomes almost a common word in December. It is the four weeks leading up to Christmas. We rarely use the word outside of the holiday season.
The same term can, also, refer to the second coming of Christ.
Outside of faith references, it means: "the arrival of a notable person, thing, or event". The advent of television, for example, changed family evenings at home forever. So did the cell phone.
"Our whole life is advent. A time of waiting for the ultimate." -Dietrich Bonhoeffer
Bonhoeffer makes a powerful observation.
Television commercials and news programs, especially this time of year, tells us that "the ultimate something" is about to be released or is available for this holiday season. The advent of the latest cell phone always finds seekers standing in long lines... even in inclimate weather... to have the opportunity to see, touch and receive the newest technology.
Confession... I hate getting a new phone. I'm a long-term relationship girl. Upgrades mean I don't understand or know how to work the newest model. Thank goodness for iPhones for the phone challenged.
I remember, never ever having used and iPod before getting my first touch screen phone. It was a cute little Lime Green Chocolate LG. Good thing it was so cute, because I was frustrated for several weeks! Okay... more like several months... but, I can and did learn. I've made friends with several cell phones since that time. Cell phones are not forever. But, they are very useful.
This Christmas, what are we waiting for with the excitement of a child? Are we standing in line for the latest and greatest technology? In our hearts, are we willing to make the same sacrifices to stand in line to worship the newborn King? Do we look toward the second coming with excitement?
Before Jesus, the people relied on priests for much of their access to the throne of God's grace. The Holy of Holies was separated by a heavy curtain and those who entered did so with great preparation, because they knew that if unprepared, they might die. God's inner sanctuary that was full of his presence was too much holy for unprepared humans.
Jesus changed everything. In coming as God and Man, he would become our only high priest. His intercession the only one needed. His sacrifice, once and for all, would change everything.
Jesus told him, “I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one can come to the Father except through me.-John 14:6
And... this gift of a new way arrived in a stable because there was no room in the inn.
The wonderful Savior of the world did not even have a proper bed. Not that it mattered. Cradled in his Mama's arms. Joseph surely wrapped his strong, carpenter's arms around both of them to ward off the night chill. Such a sweet and sacred moment that must have been with the scents of straw and Bethlehem evenings in the air.
Such a strange way to save the world... but perfect, too. The advent season is holy. Can you feel the excitement?
What are you waiting for? I need reminders to keep my eyes on the reason for the season.
Today...I am grateful for the advent.
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