Like most Baptists of my age who grew up in the South,
Advent as part of the liturgical year (or the liturgical year, for that matter)
was not part of my tradition. The idea
of expectancy and preparing for the coming of the Christ Child was still part
of our celebration and our worship, however.
As a child, I experienced not only the anticipation of
Christmas morning gifts from generous parents and grandparents, but the wonderful
carols and sacred music of the season as well as the shared worship experiences
in a close church family.
As a college student, I looked forward to the time back
home, but there were other aspects of the season that gave it meaning. One of the first real dates I had with my
future spouse was attending a Christmas performance of Handel’s Messiah. I remember that every time I hear the work
performed. As we became engaged, I looked forward to taking my finance home to
spend holiday time with family and friends and future times together as a
couple.
As a young parent, the anticipation of Christmas worship was
mixed with the expectation of new experiences for our children. As a grandfather now, sharing preparations
for Christmas with grandchildren, anticipating their joys, and attending
worship heighten the sense of anticipation.
Now, don’t get me wrong. Like every family, we have those
times during the holidays that are stressful and challenging; however, we come
back every year with expectation and hope.
There is a promise of renewal implicit in the season.
Perhaps that’s what the season is all about. Even when things aren’t perfect, we hope for
something better. We certainly share
that experience with the people of Israel who anticipated the coming of Messiah
even among times of persecution, turmoil, and exile.
The coming of the Christ Child assures us that our hope will
be rewarded. There is more. God will
provide.
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