I’m still learning about this whole thing called “Advent”. I just haven’t attended churches that formally recognized and named this pre-Christmas season before now.

But I’m liking it so far.

I like the idea of a season of reflection and preparation. I like the idea of preparing my heart for Christmas. It’s good to be reminded of the longing and the waiting and the expectation of God’s people. When I get caught up in my own longing and waiting, it seems silly in light of waiting for the Messiah.

They were waiting for Jesus! They were waiting for redemption and rescue – things I already have, and too often forget to be thankful for. It’s hard to imagine being without a Savior, being without comfort and joy.

So I’m going to really try to be more intentional over the next few weeks. I’m going to stop and think and reflect more. Prepare more.

And expect more.

Come, Thou long expected Jesus
Born to set Thy people free;
From our fears and sins release us,
Let us find our rest in Thee.
Israel’s strength and consolation,
Hope of all the earth Thou art;
Dear desire of every nation,
Joy of every longing heart.

Born Thy people to deliver,
Born a child and yet a king,
Born to reign in us forever,
Now Thy gracious kingdom bring.
By Thine own eternal Spirit
Rule in all our hearts alone;
By Thine all sufficient merit,
Raise us to Thy glorious throne.
“Come Thou Long Expected Jesus”, by Charles Wesley 1745

Now when these things begin to happen, look up and lift up your heads, because your redemption draws near. Luke 21:28

For behold, the darkness shall cover the earth,
And deep darkness the people;
But the LORD will arise over you,
And His glory will be seen upon you. Isaiah 60:2