My Dear Church Family,
Well, here we are again, already in the month of December quickly approaching Christmas. And as we do approach Christmas, many churches celebrate Advent during the four weeks prior to Christmas. Interestingly though, many people have never really researched the meaning to understand what Advent is for or why it is celebrated and could not honestly answer “what is the meaning of Advent?”
For many people the Advent season focuses on expectation and believe that it serves as an anticipation of Christ’s birth in the season leading up to Christmas. Without a doubt, this is part of the story or meaning, but there’s more to the spirit of Advent. The word “Advent” is derived from the Latin word adventus, meaning “coming,” which is actually a translation of the Greek word parousia, which also means coming or to be present. However, as one digs deeper, they would see that the primary use of this word in the New Testament was in reference to the second coming of Jesus at the end of the 7-year Tribulation. So knowing this, does that mean that people are celebrating Jesus’ coming incorrectly?
At a high level, there are three meanings of ‘coming’ that Christians describe that associated with Jesus’ coming. The first, and most thought of, happened about 2,000 years ago when Jesus came into the world as a baby to live as a man and die for us. The second can happen now, as Jesus wants to come into our lives so that we may be saved. This only happens if we accept Jesus as our Savior and into our lives. The third has not occurred, but is very certain….when Jesus comes back to the world as King and Judge, not a baby.
So, why do I mention this? As you know, I use the term “dig deeper” a lot in my teachings, especially on Wednesday evening. So, in the spirit of digging deeper, I would challenge you this year, as we approach Christmas and we hear the term Advent, certainly celebrate the first coming, the birth of Jesus, but also reflect and celebrate the day He came into your hearts, and lastly also celebrate His second coming.
We serve a mighty God, “who is, and who was, and who is to come, the Almighty.”
Kel and I love you all and wish each of you a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!
Remember, Jesus Loves You and So Do I!!
Pastor Jeff