This Friday marks the first day of December. For shoppers, the countdown to Christmas officially begins with Black Friday. Among the hustle and bustle of preparing our homes for the holiday, we prepare our hearts for one of the biggest events in our Christian faith. The birth of our Savior.
The Advent season begins on the fourth Sunday before Christmas Day and leads up to December 25.
Advent is a time in which we reflect and anticipate that time long ago when Jesus was born in a stable. We celebrate His miraculous birth and remember that He did not stay that little Baby in the manger. Advent carries a dual meaning. The remembrance of Christ’s birth and the anticipation of His return.
I love that about this season. It not only points to the birth of Jesus, but it also reminds us to be ready for His second coming.
The Advent calendar is a wonderful way to count down the days until Christmas. As we mark each day of the Advent season, we reflect and prepare our hearts to welcome the Savior and call to mind the longing and anticipation of God’s people who for centuries awaited the coming Messiah. And the longing we have today for His return.
So, this year, as you countdown each day of the season, take time to reflect on that miraculous birth all those years ago, and look with longing forward to the return of our Savior.
Merry Christmas!
Mary Alford
Christians Read 