The tradition of Advent helps believers to learn how to learn to live in the anticipation of the promises of God. In Advent, believers take the opportunity to reflect on the year that has passed. Promises fulfilled, and promises still to be fulfilled. Christmas celebrates the fulfillment of God’s promise to send a savior to his people and all of mankind. The birth of Christ fulfills the prophecies written down by Isaiah seven hundred years before the event. For seven hudred years the people of Israel had anticipated the arrival of their Messiah. God declared the fulfillment of his promise with angelc announcement.
While the fulfillment of of promises to us aren’t always so loud, the message of God’s faithfulness brings hope to all who call on Christ. For me Advent is a time to reflect on how God has been faithful to me. I am learning to trust the promises that he has made for my life. When I look back on the year, I see a shaping and a refining of my faith, I see God testing and strengthening my faith. I see a journey of learning to hope in a time and season when many will be illed with anxiety. Advent helps me to reflect on all that God has done for me.
May God help you to see all the things he has done for you and fill you with hope for what he has yet to do.