The Deacon’s View….of Advent Waiting

Advent is my favorite season.  I plan for weeks in advance, selecting a special book to read, setting aside time on my calendar each week to be still and choosing special ways of reaching out to others.  In order for me to observe “my” Advent, I know I’ll also need to clear out some of my accumulated clutter (both internal and external).

Each year, as I move through these four weeks of Advent, I discover (and rediscover) something mysterious and wonderful:  I find myself feeling more peaceful, more joy-filled and more alive.  And all of this stands in sharp contrast to the frenzied distractions that are hurled so temptingly at us as the world, once again, tries to snuff out the true Christmas.

The quiet Wednesday evening service, held each week at 5pm is a “must” for me, especially during Advent.  Though much of my Advent is intensely personal, there is also an essential part of Advent that happens only in the company of fellow believers as we corporately wait together for the coming of Christ.  For our Lord comes, not only at the end of the age, but also now, to every heart that takes the time and makes the room to welcome him, the Prince of Peace.