Advent begins on December 1st! For centuries, Christians around the world have used the four weeks leading up to Christmas to prepare themselves for the celebration of Jesus’ birth. It’s a time when we observe Jesus’ first coming while we also look forward to Jesus’ return. Each of the four weeks leading up to Advent is focused on hope, peace, love and joy respectively.
The Old Testament looked expectantly for The Advent of God’s forever king, the anointed one who would bring peace to God’s people. In anticipation, they declared, “For unto us a Child is born, Unto us a Son is given; And the government will be upon His shoulder. And His name will be called Wonderful, Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace” (Is 9:6). When the long-awaited Messiah finally came, angels announced Jesus’ birth by declaring, “I bring you good tidings of great joy which will be to all people. For there is born to you this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord” (Luke 2:10).
Throughout the Bible, God promised The Advent or coming of his son, Jesus. This is one of the most important events in all of human history — the almighty, eternal, creator of the universe becoming human, living among us, and suffering on our behalf in order to give us life. The Old Testament looked expectantly for The Advent of God’s forever king, the anointed one who would bring peace to God’s people. These promises are fulfilled through Jesus.
I am looking forward to our Advent journey as we kick off our exploration of the Gospel of Matthew!
A blessed Advent and Merry Christmas to you!
—Pastor Bree Truax
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