November 26: Introduction to the 2015 Advent Project
INTRODUCTION
We live in a complex and crazy world where the affluence and indulgence of developed nations stands in stark contrast to the millions throughout the globe who struggle for survival. It is impossible to ignore the dangerous plight of thousands of refugees as they seek asylum and new opportunities. This year’s Advent Project—influenced by current events—examines the uncanny parallels between Christ’s birth and the current refugee crisis.
As Christmas approaches, the Advent Project will observe specific themes each week relating to this topic. Weeks one and two focus on essential doctrines of the Christian faith: the incarnation of Christ and his virgin birth. Following that, we will offer a week of prayers inspired by the Old Testament book of Isaiah, calling Christ to come and effect change in our lives. The Christmas narrative occupies week four, and week five focuses on Jesus as a refugee. The Advent Project concludes in week six with Christ’s profound proclamations of peace.
We are most thankful for the illustrators, artisans, fine artists, videographers, poets, authors, composers and musicians who have contributed to this project. The multiplicity of styles, cultures, and denominations represented creates a full-bodied meditation on the marvelous things that God has done and is doing in the hearts and lives of those who seek him.
In addition, we are grateful to Professor Betsy Barber from Biola’s Institute of Spiritual Formation, her daughters Jessica Snell and Laurel Yoshimoto, and Betsy’s six grandchildren for participating in this year’s introductory Advent video. Jessica has edited Let Us Keep the Feast: Living the Church Year at Home, a book that takes the reader through all the seasons of the Christian liturgical calendar. To visit Jessica's blog click here.
The beauty of pilgriming through Advent is that it offers six weeks to earnestly contemplate the wonder and mystery of Christ’s coming to earth. The frenetic activities of the holidays tend to work us up, while the spiritual practices of Advent quietly focus our souls. Fasting, prayer, mediation, caroling, visiting the unfortunate, and giving to those in need draw us close to the Christ of Christmas. In the midst of our troubled world, we hope that this project will remind us all to be instruments of God’s peace.