Welcome to this Advent Season! On this first day of Advent, I’m wondering how I will approach the season this year. It is a time of expectation, anticipation, and preparation. Many of us “older ones” have made this journey toward Bethlehem so many times that it has lost its sense of excitement. We look ahead at the calendar and become weary, making our list of the things to be done, feeling as if it is our personal responsibility to make Christmas happen.
It isn’t that way for the children in our lives. They are excited and energized in their anticipation. They approach the manger with wide-eyed delight. There is wonder and awe in this miracle of Christmas! I want some of that spirit.
In one of his Advent Studies, Let Us Go over to Bethlehem, Reverend Dr. James Moore offers a list of “Commandments for Christmas.” These “commandments” help us begin our journey toward the celebration of Christ’s birth. (The list has been adapted and updated)
- You shall prepare early. Don’t wait until the last minute to get into the Christmas spirit.
- You shall keep Christ at the center of Christmas. Don’t allow yourself to become overwhelmed by the commercialism of the season. Resolve to read Scripture (use your devotional book) and meditate upon what it means that Christ comes into the world.
- You shall make Christmas a family time. Do things together with your biological or chosen family.
- You shall remember those who are less fortunate. Contribute money to or volunteer with organizations serving the needs of others throughout the year. Add a special Christmas gift through your church.
- You shall give yourself with every gift. As you care for each gift, pray for the one who will receive it. Wrap your giving in love.
- You shall learn to be a good receiver. Many of us have trouble receiving graciously and gracefully.
- You shall take some time for something special in your life. That something special will vary. For me, that means finding time for the music of Christmas—especially the music of worship. (The Lessons and Carols Service will be December 14.)
- You shall slow down. Remember: Christmas is to be a season of peace and hope, not a sprint to the finish line.
- You shall remember to worship. The church is the place you are most likely to be reminded of the true meaning of Christmas.
- You shall receive Christ into your life. Don’t just talk about the Christ of Christmas, let the Light of Christ shine on and through you.
Welcome to your Advent journey. May you find opportunities to celebrate the miracles! Feel the joy! If you listen with your heart, you can hear the angels sing. If you open your heart, the Christ Child will enter in.
Begin the season as you read the words of promise from Isaiah 2: 1-5.
Prayer: God, we thank you for the many gifts you give us during the season of Advent. Strengthen our faith so that we may see your love and presence each day as Christmas approaches. Amen.
Rev. Mark Connor
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