ADVENT is a time for looking both backward and forward. We look backward as we prepare to celebrate the historical birth of Jesus. At the same time, we look forward to his Second Coming, as we prepare ourselves to welcome him into all areas of our lives during the Advent season. As Christians, we know that our Lord is coming even if we cannot know the precise timing. Jesus calls us to be prepared, watchful and vigilant.
This Sunday, Nov 27, we commence the season of Advent. A new liturgical year begins. A wreath is traditionally placed near or on the sanctuary with candles for the four weeks and one candle for Christmas. Expectation and longing mark the season.
In society generally the signs of Christmas are obvious in malls, shops and some homes. In multicultural and multi-faith Australia, even those who do not traditionally celebrate Christmas manage to share in some part of the feast – even if its presents and food.
But the message that Jesus Christ is born and a new age has dawned is increasingly lost in the secularisation of Christmas. One store at ‘Westfield’ has plastered on its window “A Very Merry Everything”. Well, that’s not quite the message but others manage to get it wrong too.
We are told in today’s Scripture readings to “Stay awake!” and “Be ready!” Something bigger than our immediate concerns and worries is happening. This birthing of Jesus Christ is our new hope and joy. But we must look beyond the glitz and festivity lest it take over the real message of the season.
Our church will again be full this Christmas and preparations are underway. One supposes that this is because people glimpse that something more is afoot and that they want their children to see something of the religious content to Christmas. I hope that is true and pray that Advent will be a time of blessing and excitement for the coming of Christmas.