From the time of Jesus’ ascension, believers have been waiting – for Jesus to come again, for all the promises to be fulfilled, for the kingdom to come, for our resurrection bodies, for the renewal of all things. Every day, we live in anticipation of the Lord making everything new. But during Advent, this emphasis on waiting is heightened. Collectively, we pause to remember that we are still waiting for the desire of our hearts: Our Lord’s return.  

We cannot help but reflect on Jesus when we engage in this posture of waiting and longing. Every aspect of Advent directs us toward our Savior, from the candles we light to the carols we sing. As we raise our voices in song to “O Come, O Come, Emmanuel,” we are expressing this longing.  

So, let us immerse ourselves in the practices that minister to us as we wait. To worship with other believers, take communion, and watch the lighting of the candles of the Advent wreath. In so doing, we show the world that we are waiting for something better than fancy wrappings and hectic holidays. Our focus is directed on Jesus, our Lord, and Friend, with whom we look forward to spending eternity.        

Photo Credit: ©Unsplash/Nick Fewings