Advent and Christmas

Why is Advent a great season to consider God’s mission for the world? He came into the world for all nations and will come again in judgment of all nations.

True peace, as described in the Bible, doesn’t come from avoidance or appeasement. True peace comes from facing the worst and turning to God.

This Advent hymn is among the few that can be definitively attributed to the “father of Latin hymnody” himself, Ambrose of Milan.

Advent stands in stark contrast to the secular world’s celebration of the new year. Instead, Advent offers a quieter, humbler way to begin anew.

As parents, we could fuss over broken ornaments and misplaced garland. Instead, we do as Mary does. Luke 2:19 says, “But Mary treasured up all these things, pondering them in her heart.”

Advent is a time of expectation for followers of Jesus to remember He is coming! He has come to save us all in entirety from the sin that plagues us, and He will come again. Hope is in the making.

Advent is upon us! In this season, we look back on all Christ did when He came veiled in flesh. We also look forward to when He will come again in His resurrected body with nail-pierced hands. 

As you open your Lutheran Service Book to this hymn (357), you will also find the Great “O” Antiphons. These ancient prayers have long been used to count down the days until Christmas.

I've been searching for a beautiful expression of the Gospel in a Christmas Eve service that proclaims the saving message clearly to church members and first-time attendees. 

During Sunday services, encourage families to spend time together weekly doing something outside of the commercial craziness of Christmas and more deeply rooted in the Advent journey.