I remember when I was a kid being filled with so much anticipation in the month of December that I often had trouble sleeping. As an adult this feeling has all too often been replaced with an overwhelmed and stressed feeling. All the preparations, budgeting and shopping can take the joy right out of this season. This year I have decided to embrace the anticipation, the anticipation of Advent.
Hope- The first week of Advent focuses on hope. The hope we have in a savior sent down to save us. "The birth of Christ is the central event in the history of the earth -- the very thing the whole story has been about." -- C.S. Lewis
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Hope- The first week of Advent focuses on hope. The hope we have in a savior sent down to save us. "The birth of Christ is the central event in the history of the earth -- the very thing the whole story has been about." -- C.S. Lewis
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Love- The theme of the second week of Advent is dedicated to love. Love permeates every aspect of the Christmas story.This is a season when love of God and of our fellowmen and women fills us all, but the real challenge is to continue feeling and showing that love when Christmas is over so that it fills the entire year.
Joy- The message of the angels to the shepherds was one of “good tidings of great joy,” the third Sunday of Advent is devoted to the theme of joy, reminding us that the Christmas message is, in fact, one of rejoicing.
Peace- The final Sunday of Advent is the one that best celebrates the imminent birth of the Prince of Peace. The final week of Advent, our focus is on Peace. The peace Jesus brings surpasses the turbulence that exists in the world around us. May we all allow "the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding" to permeate us all.