This past Sunday, December 1st, marked the beginning of the Advent season. From a liturgical perspective, it signals the start of the new church year. Practically, it begins the countdown to Christmas Day. Advent means the arrival of a notable person, thing, or event. It is a period of anticipation, reflection, and preparation for the celebration of the birth of Jesus—the ultimate gift, provision, and hope for God’s people.
A Savior is Coming
“Therefore the Lord himself will give you a sign. Behold, the virgin shall conceive and bear a son, and shall call his name Immanuel.” Isaiah 7:14 Today, we remember the birth of Jesus together as a community—its significance to the Gospel and importance in the continued renewal of God’s people. As Old Testament prophecies foretold about the incarnation of Jesus, the birth of Jesus signified the word of God made into flesh—the great hope and atonement that would bring us peace. Immanuel, meaning “God with us”, would literally be fulfilled as God came down to the world to experience what it meant to be human. In 2 Corinthians 5:21 we see the great significance of why this event was so important: “For our sake He made Him to be sin who knew no sin, so that in Him we might become the righteousness of God.” He came to identify with the ones He loved and would end up paying the ultimate price for their redemption. As you get ready for Christmas this year, take some time to reflect and remember the greatest gift that was given to you at great cost. It will enable and empower you to be more generous, gracious, and thankful during this season of remembrance.
