Saturday, First Week of Advent

Reflection by Chris Freyer

December has always been a wonderful time of year for my family. It begins with Thanksgiving and a big home-cooked meal. In early December, we shop for presents and decorate our tree. We watch Christmas shows and listen to Christmas music. In mid-December, we decorate the outside of our house and go in search of beautiful light displays in other neighborhoods. A few days before Christmas, we wrap our gifts and put them in obvious places under the tree so they’ll be noticed by their recipients. The excitement builds right up to Christmas Eve.

Christmas morning is always a flurry of activity. We have breakfast first (originally a suspense builder, but now its something we really enjoy). Then we take turns opening our gifts around the tree. Eventually we call our relatives to wish them a Merry Christmas, and the rest of our day is spent relaxing, discovering our gifts, and enjoying each other's company.

Anticipation is a big part of Christmas. It always has been. In fact, Advent is the season of waiting as we prepare our hearts for Christ's return. But Advent is also a time of reflection. We should use this time to think about our spiritual journey with Christ. Are we growing with Christ? Are we truly listening for God's voice in our hearts? And perhaps most importantly, what are we doing about it?

Merry Christmas to each of you, and may you find peace, comfort, and and joy in our Savior Jesus Christ.