Advent is Here!

The first Sunday of Advent arrives this coming Sunday 12/2.  This year’s theme at Sardis is Different Voices 

One of the great advantages of reading our Scriptures is that the stories introduce us to diverse characters who glimpse pieces and moments of God’s intended world. They come from all backgrounds and experiences, and yet they find commonality in God: a force that calls them, molds them, affirms them, empowers them, and uses their gifts in extraordinary ways. When we hear their stories, we learn that God can (and does, and will!) use us, too!

Advent is a season of expectancy and preparation.  We ready ourselves for the hope, peace, joy, and love that will come with the Christchild.  This birth represents the world we long for: God and humanity living in covenant together. And it represents a re-birth in each of us.

The Lukan narratives help remind us that Christ’s birth means different things for different people.  Yes, all of our characters will experience the longed-for hope, peace, joy, and love of God in the world. But some are young, and their inexperience brings anxiety and bewilderment.  Some are old, and their experience brings caution, skepticism, and guardedness. And some are in-between, and they’re not certain what to feel. Advent, like the coming of a child, is beautiful, but it’s also messy!

There’s no way one voice, or one experience can capture the essence of the season. Therefore, we need to hear from a variety of voices.  Each week, we’ll hear from different proclaimers, who will explore different texts, characters, and feelings.  (A schedule of proclaimers can be found in the December issue of Signposts.)

How will we prepare for the Christchild? We’ll see the hope, peace, joy, and love from the eyes of our neighbors. And in hearing and seeing something new, we have the chance to see God anew.

May it be so!