Part of celebrating Christmas is observing Advent – a period of purposeful waiting.
I’m not talking about the frenzy that commercialized Christmas-making ushers in long before Thanksgiving. Rather, holiday preparations ought to be highly personal and particular, reflecting what makes Christmas meaningful to each of us.
I begin observing Advent by decorating my house. I used to think I did it for my children’s enjoyment, but now that my children are grown, I realize I do it for myself. I’m preparing my home for the arrival of the King! I’m pleased with the festive beauty the Christmas decorations add.
In my living room I have my Bethlehem village. I see the shepherd with the sheep over his shoulders and I think of Jesus’ story about the shepherd who risks leaving the ninety-nine in order to find the one who is lost (Luke 15:4-7). I look at the woman carrying a jug of water from the well and I think about the woman to whom Jesus gives “living water” (John 4:1-30). Above the village I place my own heavenly host – a wonderful collection of angels, many given to me by dear friends whom I remember as I arrange the scene.
Next I come to my dining room where my very large family will gather together and feast in a few short weeks. This room is given over to “visions of sugarplums” to remind us of the sweet deliciousness of the holiday. Christmas is Jesus’ birthday party where the Host asks us to celebrate His day by giving gifts to each other. What a beautiful tradition!
We will have our two young grandsons with us for Christmas dinner this year. When I see how excited children get anticipating December 25th I think about how eagerly our spiritual ancestors longed for God’s promised Messiah.
How blessed are we to know that the Messiah has indeed come and dwells with us still! These weeks of Advent when we prepare for the big day help us to appreciate anew why God’s timing is worth the wait.
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