Waiting

Traditionally the period before Christmas (called "Advent") was a time of spiritual preparation and waiting. During Advent, people would prepare for the "coming of Jesus" (in their lives, in the new year). They would wait and watch to see where God may break into their existence. The celebration would begin on December 25th, and last 12 days through January 5th (the feast of the Epiphany, or "the Kings day"). In some places in this world, this is still the pattern, with gifts being exchanged on January 5th, rather than December 25th.

In our culture, the celebration now begins as soon as the Halloween decorations are down. And on December 26th, it's time for Christmas to be over. But over the past few years, I've been trying to move more towards Advent being a time of preparation, with the celebration beginning on December 25th. Somehow, this mindset truly allows me to better enjoy the season and feel less stressed or rushed. This year, I feel that God is particularly calling me to a period of "waiting" as I pray for The Loop.

Today is the first Sunday of Advent. Our time of waiting has begun. Will you watch, wait, and pray with me, to see where God might break into our lives?