Why We Observe Advent

Why We Observe Advent

Our family had several Christmas traditions when I was growing up: stockings on December 6 for Saint Nick’s Day, attendance at a performance of A Christmas Carol at the historic Pabst Theater in Milwaukee, Christmas Eve with the extended family at my grandparents’ house, and of course, the standard tree, gifts, cookies, and programs at school and church. But one year, my parents surprised us all with the announcement that, beginning the Sunday after Thanksgiving, we were going to “observe Advent,” complete with a homemade wreath, candles, readings, and scripted prayers. “Hmmm” was the profound thought that crossed my adolescent mind. “We’ll see how this goes.” Typically skeptical high school guy.

Perhaps you share the ambivalence of my former days, especially if you’re not from a liturgical church background. (How can you tell? If you’ve never heard of a “Hanging of the Greens” service, it’s safe to say your church background is not liturgical!) So why would we observe Advent as a church these four Sundays between Thanksgiving and Christmas?

First, it provides us with a unique opportunity to demonstrate our solidarity with other Christian churches all over the world and throughout history. We might not believe or practice exactly the same on every particular, but we do share a common hope and joy in the coming of the Savior!

Second, it reminds us of the need to prepare our own hearts for Jesus’ return. As we retell the Christmas story through our Advent readings, we’re always reminded of the many people who were so regrettably unprepared for the coming of the Messiah that night in Bethlehem, even though they knew he was going to come eventually. It’s a helpful opportunity to examine ourselves to make sure the same thing doesn’t happen to us when He comes to earth the second time. 

And finally, it helps keep the true meaning of Christmas before us throughout the whole season. In a culture where Christmas is so heavily commercialized and secularized, it’s a welcome relief to punctuate the madness with four opportunities for reflection and refocusing on the real reason for the season.

        So join believers across town and across the centuries. Prepare your heart for the Savior’s return. And rejoice that Emmanuel has come.