The Joy of the Season
Welcome to December Patheos Friends! Just like that the month that brings in one of the most wonderful times of the year is here! The month of December brings with it lots to observe and celebrate, especially all the faith-related observances and celebrations. From Advent, Hanukkah, to Christmas, this time of year is captivating with all the jubilations and festivities of this special season. The joy of this season is the solidarity of Christians worldwide celebrating the birth of Jesus Christ-Savior of the world. And happy birthday blessings to everyone that shares this special month of our Savior’s birth as you celebrate. What a celebration this month is.
Concept of Advent
Observing and celebrating Advent is powerful for a believer in Christ. For a long time, Advent has been observed in most Christian denominations. The concept of Advent started in the late 300s in modern day France and Spain where Christians at that time spent time fasting and praying leading to Christmas Day. Through the ages, the concept of Advent has grown to what we have today; celebrated by believers in Christ and many Christian denominations. Advent is that four weeks span after Thanksgiving holiday to Christmas Eve. There are many transformational blessings to observing and celebrating Advent.
Call to Draw Near to God
Believers in Christ can experience transformation by embracing Advent. Whether that involves a time of worship, a time of prayer, or a time of intense scripture meditation, Advent is a special call to draw near to God. James 4:8 shows us the assurance of drawing near to God. It states, “Draw near to God, and He will draw near to you. Cleanse your hands, you sinners, and purify your hearts, you double-minded.” Anytime a believer intentionally draws near to God, he or she is met with God’s reciprocity- He draws near. Think of the blessing of God’s Presence as you celebrate Advent this year.
Call to Self-Reflection
Advent provides a time for believers in Christ to self-reflect by looking inward and asking the Holy Spirit to search us and see if there is anything that displeases God. Advent gives us that special time to do exactly what 2 Corinthians 13:5 says. It states, “Examine yourselves to see whether you are in the faith; test yourselves. Do you not realize that Christ Jesus is in you—unless, of course, you fail the test?” With the fast-paced culture we live in, Advent gives us this special call to slow down and self-reflect. Think of the blessing of God’s Peace as you celebrate Advent this year.
Call to Recalibrate
Advent provides a time for believers in Christ to recalibrate. Like equipment or systems that drift, off course, the human body needs frequent recalibrations. After a hectic week, month or year, it is not only wise to recalibrate, but it is necessary for the body to rejuvenate and heal itself. Spiritually, believers need recalibrations to ensure alignment to God’s purpose just as written in Matthew 6:33. It states, “But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things will be added to you.” Think of the blessing of God’s Purpose as you celebrate Advent this year. 2025 Advent: November 20 to December 24, 2025.
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