November 26: Introduction to the 2016 Advent Project
INTRODUCTION
The observance of Advent in Christendom dates back to the sixth century. The word Advent comes from the Latin “adventus,” which is, interpreted “the approach” or “the arrival.” Jesus Himself commands His followers to “Watch. Stay awake. Get ready and prepare!” The spiritual practices of Advent help us to focus our attention, quietly calling believers to carefully examine their interior and exterior lives as they prepare to welcome the Christ of Christmas.
In his introduction to this year’s Advent Project that focuses on the theme of family, Jonathan Puls talks about a consistent longing on the part of God (recorded in the Old Testament), to know us, to have us for His own, and to be known. Jesus made God known to us, and we should understand Christ’s arrival as the fulfillment of God’s deep longing. Christ came as a child born into a particular family. Jesus’ experiences growing up with parents and relatives in a closely-knit community Puls say, “makes us known to him in profoundly intimate ways.”
When we put our faith and trust in Christ we enter the family of God. He becomes our Father, we his children, other believers our brothers and sisters, and the church our spiritual family. As we journey together during the next few weeks be mindful that technology has made it possible for Christian brothers and sisters all over the world to join together in the Advent Project, as part of this diverse universal family.
In week one we look at some of the promises surrounding the coming Messiah much like families anticipate the birth of an expectant child. Week two focuses on a few of Christ’s titles and character qualities as we think about the significance of names, an important gift new parents bestow upon their children. In week three we examine the particular family chosen by God and the peculiar circumstances surrounding the births of John the Baptist and Jesus. During week four we’ll meditate on the extraordinary events encompassing Christ’s birth. We conclude in weeks five and six by highlighting the feasts and remembrances of Christmastide celebrated by the early church, much like households annually celebrate birthdays, anniversaries, and other cherished moments in family life.
Again, 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. We are also most grateful to those readers who have contributed financially to this unusual endeavor.
Peace to you this Advent and Christmastide as you and your loved ones experience anew the birthday of our King.