Advent derives from the Latin word, “adventus” which means coming. This is the season that proclaims and prepares us for the coming of the Christ Child, the baby who changes everything! Each year, the Advent season invites us to take time for prayer, fasting, Bible study, as well as, relational acts of mercy, service, and justice.
In our home, we will light candles each of the four Sundays before Christmas. Using the guide for Advent produced by United Methodist Higher Education Foundation, we are invited to prepare our hearts for the Savior’s coming as we light the Candle of Hope this Sunday, December 2, followed by the candles of Love, Peace, and Joy, each Sunday as Christmas Day nears.
It was long ago that Old Testament prophets predicted the hope of Christ coming to earth!
“Therefore the Lord himself will give you a sign: The virgin will conceive and give birth to a son, and will call him Immanuel.” Isaiah 7:14 (NIV)
Prepare the way of the Lord.
Prepare the way of the Lord, and all people will see the salvation of our God.
(Isaiah 40:3, United Methodist Hymnal #207)
Join me in a three-month journey reading through the New Testament beginning this Advent. May we breathe hope and spread love during this holy and sacred season.
Be encouraged,
Bishop Julius C. Trimble