Advent begins on Sunday, December 1st!

Advent looks hopefully toward the greatest expression of God’s loving presence imaginable. The Son of God poured himself out for us, becoming a little babe in his great desire to draw as close to us as possible, taking on our nature with all the daily joys and sorrows that come with it. Each Christmas, he invites us to encounter him anew, as he comes again to renew our lives. The Advent season, therefore, invites us to draw close to him, journeying to Bethlehem in spirit and sharing Jesus’s loving presence with family and friends.

To guide our journey, each day of Advent we will read from the Prophet Isaiah, who so clearly speaks of the coming of the Messiah, born of a Virgin. The newborn king comes to bring peace, not by intervening from above, but by coming to abide in our hearts, making us men of peace who spread the Kingdom of God in the world. Because God became man, he has given us a hope that surpasses anything else in the world.

By taking the preparation of Advent seriously, we imitate Jesus’s radical presence and availability. All the interactions in the home and our festive gatherings can become a means of sharing God’s loving presence with others. The Christmas season continues to bring our country together in the pursuit of joy and peace. Even if many overlook the reason for the season, we can refocus our attention on the coming of Christ in hope.

Exodus 90’s Advent Challenge offers concrete ways to live out the Advent season.