ADVENT

Advent is the period that begins four Sundays before Christmas.  It is the beginning of the Christian year.  During Advent it is appropriate to contemplate our desire and longing for Christ to be formed within.  Questions to contemplate during Advent:  Do I really believe in Him?  Do I put my complete hope and trust in Him?  How do I view my future?  Do I have hope that my future is bright because Christ came to take me and the world back from sin and evil?  Am I continually making room for Christ to live in my heart, personal life, home, and workplace?  How so?

Advent activities help people and families to keep the holiday season in the right perspective.  Some fun activities for the family during Advent:
1.  An Advent Wreath
2.  An Advent Calendar
3.  A Jesse Tree
4.  Spend Less, Give More (Advent Conspiracy)

Summary of Advent Spirituality from Ancient Future Time by Robert E. Webber

Theme	Spiritual Emphasis
What is the meaning of Advent?	1st: Israel's longing for a Messiah. 2nd: A longing for a new breaking in of God's Spirit upon us.
How does the message of Isaiah apply to Advent worship and spirituality?	Plead with God to break in on us.  Live in expectation for the coming of God into our lives and into history.
How does John the Baptist image Advent spirituality?	His sole mission in life was to point to Jesus as the coming Messiah. His lifestyle was one of self-giving love.
How does Mary, the mother of Jesus, image Advent spirituality?	She was ready to what God asked her to do. Following Mary's example, we are to be open receptacles for our God.  Our prayer comes from her words "May it be to me..." (Luke 1:38)
What are the three Advents - the three comings that form our Advent spirituality?	1.  The longing for Christ to come anew into our own lives. 2.  His coming to Bethlehem to be our Savior. 3.  The expectation that at the end of history he will rescue the world and establish his rule in the new heavens and earth.
	Advent Prayer Merciful God, who sent your messengers, the prophets, to preach repentance and prepare the way for our salvation: Give us grace to heed their warnings and forsake our sins, that we may greet with joy the coming of Jesus Christ our Redeemer, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever.  Amen.