Advent is Here

1) It’s the Most Wonderful Time of the Year! (Andy Williams)

I didn’t know what Advent even meant until I was quite grown up. As a kid, all I knew was that when candles, wreaths, purple, coniferous trees, nativity scenes, and “O Come, O Come Emmanuel” showed up, good things were imminent. It was about the mystery, joy, and anticipation (oh, the anticipation!) of Christmas Day!

            Today, Advent means all of those things, but so much more. It is, indeed, the anticipation for Christmas Day, not so much because presents are there, but because of the radical reality of what God has done—He came and dwelt among us. Our Emmanuel. God with us. The hymns and traditions, worship and liturgy all point to this nearly incomprehensible reality.

            There is a significant eye on tomorrow, on the future, during Advent. So much of the time we think of the past (and rightfully so). We know that the birth of the Christ was an actual historical event. We are celebrating a past event. In Advent we are also celebrating a future event—the return of our King. The parousia, or Second Coming of Jesus, is always in our vision as we celebrate Advent.

            Past. Present. Future. It is Advent. It is the most wonderful time of the year!

2) It’s Christmas, Let’s Be Glad! (Sufjan Stevens)

           Our gladness resounded yesterday as we kicked off the Advent season with a BANG! Over 70 kids were enormously blessed yesterday by FCC’s Kids Kraft Day. What a joy to see so many children (and their parents) here at the church—they were working so hard! KKD Team…you did a great job! Thank you!

            Also, we enjoyed a beautiful wedding last night as David Goben and Cynthia (Cyd) Ciesla were wed in holy matrimony. Praise God from whom all blessings flow!

            Today, we have the joy of worshiping together, celebrating the Sacrament of Communion, learning together (you will be…engaged at Sunday school), and many of you will be meeting in Life Groups later tonight.

            Next Sunday the kids will be leading us in worship. The following week Christmas Coffeehouse presents It’s a Wonderful Life radio play. Christmas Eve worship follows shortly thereafter. In between, all kinds of stuff is going on. What a joy! Be glad!

3) A Christmas Prayer. (Aaron Neville)

           Advent also heralds the last month of the calendar year. During December, we often reflect deeply on the year that is past. I pray that as you reflect you also pray earnestly for all the saints at FCC and all the saints in God’s holy universal church. Please pray particularly for those in our congregation who are ailing physically and emotionally.

Christ be with you all as you enjoy this Lord’s Day. Go in peace. Serve the Lord!