Advent!

It’s that time of year again for Christmas cookies, caroling, cocoa, and good holiday cheer! Anyone brave the crowded shops on Black Friday? Although I didn’t wake up at 4am to rush to the Mall, I did go shopping later on during the day. Everywhere I went there were all types of people starting their Christmas shopping. Long lines were inevitable!

And although it’s fun to enjoy the holiday hustle and bustle, sing Christmas songs (finally!), and maybe enjoy a warm Starbucks drink, we also have to remember that this is not only the start of the Christmas shopping season, it is also the start of Advent season.

What is Advent?
Advent is the season of waiting and preparing. We are preparing ourselves for the birth of the Son of God. Isn’t that amazing? Sometimes I don’t think we stop to realize what that means. After all, God, the all powerful and awesome King of the Universe, has taken on the form of a lowly, humble, human being. God humbled himself for our sake! And Advent is all about preparing ourselves to meet our God! How much time are we spending to prepare ourselves to come face to face with God?

In our daily lives we prepare for a variety of things: school, work, trips, parties, dates, etc. And with each of these things, if we are really excited or care enough about it, we take great care to fully prepare for it. How many of you have ever bought a new outfit for a party or maybe a date because you wanted to look your best and make a good impression? Well God has a date with us, and we know neither the day nor the hour that He will be coming. So we’ve got to prepare ourselves now for when He does come.

So don’t forget to find time for prayer and reflection this busy season! Christmas shopping is fun but remember that your presence can be a wonderful present too! Spend time with the people you love and help each other grow closer in Christ.

Happy Advent!