An Advent blog---
I tend to equate December with the following things--traffic, shopping, busyness.....stress! Maybe you feel the same way.
God in His goodness has led the church to observe a time apart from these pressures. It's called Advent, a reflective time of prayer, repentance, service, and contemplation. What does it really mean that God came in the flesh in the person of Jesus Christ? What does it really mean to us that he was born, died, and rose? What does it really mean that he will come again to take us home when our course on earth has finished? And what does it really mean that Christian people claim to have a living relationship with him now?
Advent prompts us to consider these aspects of his coming. The season is centered in worship and prayer. From that deep, still place (if we will go there), a transformation occurs. Traffic, shopping, and even the busyness are somehow different. We recall the purpose for the preparations. The gifts and greetings are grounded in sharing a gift that we've taken time to open.
At ELC we are in the midst of this Advent journey. If you are close to our Frederick campus or the Urbana Elementary School, you're invited to join our happy group who are preparing inwardly and outwardly.
If you are reading these words from far away, the miracle of the Church means there is a faith community close by that is walking the same path and you will be welcome, too. Remember that you are precious in the eyes of God.
Blessings this Advent and Christmas. Blessings as you rejoice in the mystery and love of Jesus Christ, Emmanuel.
Pastor Dave+