Question: What is Advent?
Answer: Advent is a time of anticipation for Christ’s arrival. He came as a baby the first time. He will return as the conquering King the second time.
As Advent approaches each year, Christians around the world begin a season of reflection, anticipation, and celebration. For Protestant Christians, Advent is a time to prepare our hearts to celebrate the coming of Jesus, not only remembering His birth but also looking forward to His promised return. But what is Advent, why is it important, and how can we practically embrace it?
What is Advent?
Advent comes from the Latin word adventus, meaning “coming” or “arrival.” It’s a season observed in the four Sundays leading up to Christmas, designed to prepare Christians for celebrating the incarnation of Jesus and to reflect on His coming again. Traditionally, Advent focuses on themes of hope, peace, joy, and love, with each week in the season drawing attention to one of these aspects of Christ’s coming.
The season also points to both the past and the future: we remember that God came to dwell among us as Jesus, fulfilling the ancient prophecies, and we anticipate His return, where He will establish His eternal kingdom. In this way, Advent calls us to live in a “now-and-not-yet” tension—acknowledging Christ’s first coming while awaiting His second.
Why is Advent Important?
For many, the weeks leading up to Christmas can feel overwhelming and hectic, filled with shopping, gatherings, and to-do lists. Advent offers a countercultural invitation to slow down, pause, and remember the true reason for our celebration. Here are a few key reasons why Advent holds significance for Christians:
1- Renewed Focus on Christ.
Advent shifts our attention from commercialism and busyness to Christ-centered reflection. It reminds us that Christmas isn’t just about gifts and parties but about God’s gift to humanity.
2- A Reminder of God’s Faithfulness.
Advent reminds us of God’s faithfulness in keeping His promises. Just as He sent Jesus as our Savior, He will fulfill His promise to come again.
3- A Call to Hope and Anticipation.
In a world filled with pain and brokenness, Advent invites us to look forward with hope. We’re reminded that Christ is the Light who breaks into our darkness, and we anticipate the day He will make all things new.
Practical Steps to Celebrate Advent
Celebrating Advent as a Protestant doesn’t need to be complicated. Here are some simple, practical steps to help you and your family enter into the spirit of the season:
1- Set Up an Advent Wreath.
Place a wreath with four candles, representing each week of Advent, and a central candle for Christmas. Each Sunday, light a candle and read Scripture related to that week’s theme (hope, peace, joy, love). This weekly rhythm helps cultivate anticipation.
2- Daily Scripture Reading.
Spend time each day reading Scriptures related to the coming of Christ. Many Advent devotionals offer daily readings and reflections that focus on both the Old Testament prophecies and New Testament fulfillments in Christ. This is a great way to center your day around God’s Word.
3- Incorporate Prayer and Reflection.
Advent is a wonderful time for deepening your prayer life. Take time each day to reflect on the themes of Advent and ask God to cultivate those qualities in your heart.
4- Engage in Acts of Kindness and Service.
Reflect Christ’s love by serving others. Whether through volunteer work, giving to those in need, or simply showing kindness to someone in your community, Advent is a season to embody the love of Jesus.
5- Practice Simplicity.
Consider simplifying your holiday schedule and spending time with loved ones in meaningful ways. Let go of the unnecessary pressures, and focus on what truly matters—celebrating Jesus and spending time with those He’s placed in your life.
6- Celebrate Together as a Community.
If your church observes Advent, join in! Corporate worship during this season can deepen your understanding and sense of anticipation. Participating in community activities like Christmas Eve services or caroling can remind you that Advent is celebrated as part of the larger Body of Christ.
Advent is an invitation to step away from the rush of the world and re-center on the story of Jesus. As we light candles, read Scripture, pray, and serve others, we remember that Christ’s coming is both a historical event and a promise for the future. May this Advent season be a time for you and your family to grow closer to Christ and to each other as you await His coming with hope, joy, and expectation.
