Advent 2009
About Advent
The season of Advent begins Sunday, November 2009, and concludes Christmas Eve. Advent (which derives from the Latin word for “coming”) allows the Christian and his or her community to enter into the story of Jesus Christ, focused mainly around his birth but also in waiting for his Second Coming in the future. At this point in the biblical story, Jesus has not yet come since he has yet to be born. Thus, we participate in Mary’s (and the world’s) anticipation for the birth of her son. In this anticipation, here few things that grasp the essence of Advent that allow us to participate in the season.
Things to do for Advent:
Colors: Certain seasons are associated with certain colors. Christmas has red and green. The colors often used to represent the season of Advent are purple (for repentance and reflection), pink (joy), and blue (hope).
Song: a hymn that captures the essence of Advent is “O Come, O Come, Emmanuel” –
O come, O come, Emmanuel,
And ransom captive Israel,
That mourns in lonely exile here
Until the Son of God appear.
And ransom captive Israel,
That mourns in lonely exile here
Until the Son of God appear.
Scripture Reflections:
Scripture passages to reflect on during the season of Advent:
-
Old Testament reflection: Malachi 3:1-4
-
New Testament reflection: Luke 1:46-55
Practices:
-
Fasting. During the holiday season between Thanksgiving and Christmas Day, our cultural norm is self-indulgence. One way to refocus your life around “waiting” is to fast from certain foods or certain things. For instance, fasting from meat allows us to think first before we eat, or fasting from sweets allows us to wait for the day of celebration when Christ is born–when he is born, eat cake!
-
Decorations. In anticipation of Christ’s birth, consider decorating your house for this glorious day of celebration on Christmas Eve. Wait to celebrate. For Advent, consider decorating your kitchen table with purple, pink, and/or blue.
-
Raid your closet and give stuff away. We get so many new things on Christmas Day. In anticipation of that day of celebration, let’s raid our closets and give some stuff (still in great condition) to the poor. Give stuff that away that you haven’t used for 6 months. Give blankets and warm clothes to the homeless.
-
Advent Calendar. Buy an Advent calendar and fill it with treats, Scripture passages, and small gifts. Each day open a door and enjoy what’s inside.
-
Advent Wreath. By far, one of the most common traditions. One night a week, follow the Advent readings and light a candle on the wreath. The Scriptures remind us of our waiting. If you have children, have them assist you. Each week one more candle is lit until you reach the wonderful day of Christ’s birth.
