As we start December advent is a valuable opportunity to journey together in the lead up to Christmas and explore and celebrate the incredible significance of God setting into motion events that ultimately through His coming near to us enable us to draw near to Him.
The word advent is derived from the latin “adventus”, it literally means “coming” and reminds us of how Jesus came to us and stepped into our world. It encourages us that God is still in the business of “coming near” and enthuses us to continue to make space for him, to welcome him and seek Him first in our hearts. It is as we make space to seek Him first that we come alive.
Christmas is one of my favourite times of year as we celebrate Emanuel, God with us. I love the sense of wonder as we remember he was born in a dirty stable, yet deserving of a palace. I love the hope that the stable represents. So often I don’t feel like my heart is a palace fit for a king. Sometimes I feel like it’s full of junk, pretty much like that stable, and other times honestly I feel really distracted and wrestle with questions. So it is good news for our hearts, as we think about God coming near that he chose not to come to a palace fit for a King, but to an animal shed in a tiny village, into a family who most likely knew the stigma of rumours and who shortly after became refugees.
Long may hope blossoms in our families as we prepare for Christmas and celebrate that His grace qualifies us to receive Emmanuel.
“The people walking in darkness
have seen a great light;
on those living in the land of deep darkness
a light has dawned. […]
For to us a child is born,
to us a son is given,
and the government will be on his shoulders.
And he will be called
Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God,
Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.
Of the greatness of his government and peace
there will be no end.
He will reign on David’s throne
and over his kingdom,
establishing and upholding it
with justice and righteousness
from that time on and forever.
The zeal of the Lord Almighty
will accomplish this.” (NIV)