What is Advent?

For a long time, Christmas to me was mainly about Christmas Day. Either it was about the presents when I was younger, or spending time with friends and family as I’m slightly less young.

One thing that hasn’t really been on my radar till more recently is advent. I knew about it, but I hadn’t longed for it. Focusing on advent is a more recent thing for me. Mostly, the focus has been on Christmas Day and the busyness of the season leading up to it. Or, more realistically, the focus has been Christmas Day, with the lead-up being a blur. But I think there is a real loss when Advent is forgotten.

Advent means the arrival of someone or something. It refers not just to Christmas day. It is something that the church celebrates in the four Sundays leading up to Christmas.

Last week, I spoke about Carols in the context of Advent. This week, I wanted to think more foundationally about Advent. Advent reminds us of the story of Jesus that begins in the Old Testament. His coming in the New Testament is after much, much waiting.

When we celebrate the season of Advent, not just Christmas day, we are waiting and join with God’s people as those who wait. Advent helps us slow down rather than go, go, go. Advent reminds us of our needs, less presents and preparation for time with family, and more salvation. Advent also helps us look to Jesus' return. As we practice looking forward to Jesus' first arrival, his first coming, we are building the habit of looking forward to his return. The season and practice of Advent has much to offer us over-busy modern consumers.

By Rev. Craig McCorkindale (Senior Assistant Minister)