During this season of reflection and hopeful anticipation, I want to share with you Advent’s significance to me. Maybe my thoughts will resonate with you.
As Christians practicing in the traditions of Methodism, we know that Advent is a period of preparation for the celebration of Christ’s birth. It is a time of waiting — but not just for the holiday festivities of family meals, holiday parties with friends, and gift-giving.
More importantly, it is a time to pause and prepare for a deeper connection with the gift of Christ.
The days leading up to Christmas are too often filled with grand expectations. It’s what society teaches us. We are trained to decorate earlier, buy more, and prepare for things that may or may not have anything to do with the baby Jesus.
Santa, more times than not, is the center of attention.
But the reality is that Advent reminds us to prioritize what truly matters: spending quality time with those important to us, being present in all things, and reflecting on the blessings we have received throughout the year. It encourages us to consider how we can be a source of light and hope for others, and to appreciate even the smallest moments that bring joy into our lives.
Advent challenges us to make space — in our careers, relationships, and communities.
Putting Christ at the center
One way to do this is to set aside time to reflect on something unique to our personal Advent experience. For me, it’s our family’s Advent Wreath (pictured above with my daughter, Grace, lighting a candle). Always in a prominent spot no matter where we have lived, I walk by it daily and am reminded of the promises of hope, love, joy, and peace with Christ at the center.
It is a pleasant distraction from the 25+ images of Santa we have in our den alone!
For you, it might be the nativity (minus the baby Jesus until Christmas Eve), or a star (Moravian in our home) that reminds us of the journey of the wise men. It’s not so different from our own journey to the Christ child.
As we prepare for what is yet to come, the Foundation board and staff express our heartfelt appreciation for your continued trust and partnership. We wish you a peace-filled Advent season.
In Christ,
Above: David Snipes and granddaughter Emma Grace Hampton (9 1/2 months)
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