Advent Is Approaching Series

Advent Is Approaching

Introduction

As the days grow shorter and the crispness of the air reminds us that winter is near, a familiar sense of anticipation begins to stir. Advent is fast approaching. For the world around us, this season often means rushing headlong into the hustle and bustle of Christmas preparations—shopping, decorating, and planning parties. But for us, Advent is a time of deeper reflection, a sacred pause, and an opportunity to prepare our hearts for something far more significant: the celebration of the birth of Jesus Christ and the promise of His return.

The word "Advent" comes from the Latin adventus, meaning “coming” or “arrival.” It is a time when we look back in gratitude at God’s faithfulness, live intentionally in the present, and look forward with hope to the fulfilment of His promises. Today, I want us to reflect on how Advent can transform us as we embrace its truth. We’ll focus on three essential aspects of Advent: Pause for Prayer, Share Hope, and Focus on the Promise.

1. Pause for Prayer

Psalm 46:10 “Be still, and know that I am God!”

Advent is a call to slow down in a world that never seems to stop. It is a time to resist the noise and distractions that compete for our attention. Prayer is central to this season because it centres our hearts on God.

Let’s consider how pausing for prayer transforms us during Advent:

Reconnection with God: Just as Jesus often withdrew to pray, we, too, are invited to retreat into His presence. During Advent, light an Advent candle, meditate on Scripture, or simply sit quietly, allowing God’s peace to fill your heart. Prayer helps us realign our priorities and draws us closer to the One we celebrate.

A Heart of Gratitude: In prayer, we remember God’s faithfulness in sending Jesus as our Saviour. Reflecting on the incarnation—the miracle of Emmanuel, “God with us”—reminds us that God’s love is personal, present, and powerful.

Strength for the Present: Life can feel overwhelming, especially during this season, but prayer reminds us that God is our refuge and strength, our ever-present help in trouble.

What does pausing for prayer look like for you this Advent? Perhaps it’s creating a new rhythm—setting aside a specific time daily to pray or starting an Advent devotional. When we pause for prayer, we make space for God to speak into our lives, transforming our hearts.

2. Share Hope

Matthew 5:14-16 “You are the light of the world—like a city on a hilltop that cannot be hidden.”

Advent isn’t just about what we receive; it’s also about what we give. As we prepare to celebrate God’s ultimate gift—Jesus—we are called to share His hope and love with others.

In a world filled with loneliness, pain, and despair, our actions and words have the power to reflect Christ’s light. Here are ways we can share hope this Advent:

Acts of Kindness: Offer a helping hand to someone in need, prepare a meal for a neighbour, or write an encouraging note to a friend. These small gestures can point people to the love of Jesus.

Words of Life: In conversations, let your words reflect the hope you have in Christ. Share the reason for the season and the joy that comes from knowing Him.

Serving the Least: Jesus said, “Whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me” (Matthew 25:40). Advent invites us to reach out to those who are hurting, homeless, or hungry. How can you reflect God’s heart to someone who feels forgotten?

When we share hope, we embody the gospel in practical ways, showing the world the true meaning of Advent.

3. Focus on the Promise

John 14:3 “When everything is ready, I will come and get you, so that you will always be with me where I am.”

Advent is not just about looking back to Jesus’ first coming; it is also about looking ahead to His return. This dual focus gives Advent its unique richness—it reminds us that the story of Christmas doesn’t end in the manger but points to the fulfilment of God’s eternal plan.

Focusing on the promise of Christ’s return transforms us in several ways:

Living with Purpose: Knowing Jesus will come again inspires us to live faithfully and intentionally. It encourages us to examine our lives and align our priorities with God’s kingdom.

Persevering in Hope: In a world filled with brokenness, the promise of Jesus’ return reminds us that all things will be made new. This hope sustains us when life feels hard and assures us that God’s plan is unfolding perfectly.

Proclaiming the Gospel: Advent is an opportunity to share the good news that Jesus came to save us and is coming again to reign as King. Let this season inspire us to boldly proclaim His love and truth to those who don’t yet know Him.