As I’ve gotten older in my life I have come to appreciate the comfort I find in traditions. I have come to appreciate Christmas. as more than just a gift giving celebration and more of as a time of the year full of introspection and reflection. It is especially true of the Christmas season that, for me, represents represents a time to think about the person I was before I became a Christian. And I am always in awe of how far God has brought me. Therefore the season makes me even more thankful that I open my heart and accepted the love that He was freely giving for me.
One of those rich traditions that I love is the celebration of Advent. Interestingly enough, while I grew up in Catholic church, I don’t remember ever celebrating Advent; and for that matter I don’t remember celebrating Advent the times that I went to other churches of other denominations. So my celebration of Advent started individually, in my own home in 2008. I cannot tell you how observing this time really change me. The change the mindset that I had that season made it one of the most meaningful and grounding Christmas seasons I’ve ever had.
Today, I continue to celebrate the beauty of Advent, and as I lit the fourth Candle of Advent—also known as the ‘Angel Candle’— I was filled with the expectation of the peace it represents and the Great News that come with it! The meaning and imagery from Scripture always gives me goosebumps:
"Suddenly a great company of the heavenly host appeared with the angel, praising God and saying, "Glory to God in the highest heaven, and on earth peace to those on whom his favor rests." (Luke 2:13–14, NIV).
This verse always stops me on my tracks as I try to imagine what that moment was like for those who witnessed it. Did they truly comprehend the enormity that they were the first to hear the great news? I am always moved that God chose the humble shepherds to received the biggest news in the universe— and the symbolism of the shepherds being chosen by God to receive the news about the birth of the man who would become the Good Shepherd tending after His lost lamb, is not lost to me. Another example of God’s amazing grace.
So this week, as we near the birth of our Savior, let us remember God’s love for us. That He made himself human to come to Earth and redeem us. Let us focus on the meaning of season and the Great News that is the birth of the baby Jesus. Rejoice! The Messiah is Coming!
Be blessed, friends.
I may be found joining these lovely link-ups: Inspire Me Monday, GraceFull Tuesday, Let’s Have Coffee, Hearts Encouragement, Recharge Wednesday, Grace at Home, Let’s Have Coffee, Friday at the Fire Station Link-Up