Date: Nov. 28, 2020
We may all be distant and living in uncertain times, but the end of the year draws near and the time of Advent is here. Advent is all about the anticipation of the arrival of the baby Jesus and starts on November 29.
The year is coming to an end, and it has been a year to remember. With the pandemic and social distancing, this year has been one of the loneliest years on record. It can depressing and so disconcerting. As the year ends, we want to talk about that thought with our theme of Advent, Tidings of Comfort & Joy.
Advent is when we anticipate the arrival of Jesus leading up to Christmas. It is a celebration of his first coming and the anticipation of his return. Advent presents us with peace and comfort, knowing there is certainty in this world.
Many times we forget the thrill that comes by knowing that Jesus is the Savior of the world. When he was born, people celebrated, not just because a baby was born, but he represented a new future. The people of Jesus’ time were oppressed under harsh Roman rule and oppressed under the legality of the Pharisees. They people always felt uncertain about the future, but they found no solace.
That is, until the coming of the Messiah. The Christmas song, God Rest Ye, Merry Gentlemen, sums up this feeling in its first verse:
God rest ye merry gentlemen
Let nothing you dismay
Remember Christ our Savior
Was born on Christmas Day
To save us all from Satan's pow'r
When we were gone astray
Oh tidings of comfort and joy
Comfort and joy
Oh tidings of comfort and joy
The Savior of the world was born to save us from the power of sin and death and that should bring us comfort and joy.
