Advent teaches us so very much. It teaches us hope. And peace. And joy. And love. But above all else, it teaches us trust. Advent, at its core, is about waiting and it is about trust. It is about trusting in God to make all things wait. Advent is about when we remember the waiting of the people of God for Jesus’ first coming. And it is where we wait now for His second coming. Today, we’ll talk a little more about the symbols, what they mean, and what they can teach us.

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Read Isaiah 9: 2-7 here.

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Good morning, and welcome to another day of studying God’s Word together. I’m delighted to be with you today as we delve further into our exploration of Advent. In our previous discussion, we touched upon the concept of the church year. Today, I want to provide a more in-depth look at what Advent signifies and how we can actively engage with this season to comprehend God’s goodness.

To deepen our understanding, let’s turn to the book of Isaiah, specifically Isaiah chapter nine, verses two through seven. These verses are familiar to many, emphasizing the theme of light breaking through the darkness. The passage speaks of the joy that comes with the arrival of a great light, breaking the yoke of burden and oppression, and foretelling the birth of a child who will carry names such as Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, and Prince of Peace. The authority of this child will bring endless peace and establish justice and righteousness.

Now, let’s focus on Advent. The term “Advent” itself means arrival, and this season calls our attention to two significant arrivals of Christ—His first coming in Bethlehem and His awaited second coming to restore and set things right. Advent is a season of waiting, urging us to reflect on the patient anticipation of those who awaited Christ’s first arrival during the 400 years of silence between the last prophet and the birth of Jesus.

In our fast-paced, instant-gratification culture, waiting is a valuable lesson Advent teaches us. We’re reminded that we’re not in control; God is. Advent’s symbols, such as the light of the Christmas tree and the Advent wreath, further emphasize the theme of waiting for the arrival of Christ. The circular nature of the wreath symbolizes the everlasting nature of God, and each candle lit on the wreath, representing themes like hope, peace, joy, and love, guides us through the season.

The Christ candle, my personal favorite, symbolizes the incarnation of Christ’s presence. Lit on Christmas Eve, it signifies His birth, extinguished on Maundy Thursday to represent His crucifixion, and relit on Easter to celebrate His resurrection. This beautiful symmetry between Christmas and Easter serves as a poignant reminder of the hope, peace, joy, and love found in Christ’s both arrivals.

Advent prompts us to wait patiently, to trust in God’s timing, and to have faith in His plan. Paul’s declaration that “In the fullness of time, Christ was born to a virgin” underlines that God’s timing is always perfect. Advent challenges our desire for control and encourages us to surrender to God’s sovereign timetable.

Consider today where you need patience and a reminder that you are not in control. Advent’s daily reminder is that we wait, trust, and have faith. It directs our focus to God’s goodness and salvation, reminding us that Christ has come, bringing salvation, and will come again to complete it.

As we continue our exploration of Advent, I encourage you to reflect on its profound lessons and share any questions or thoughts you may have. Thank you for joining us, and I look forward to our continued journey of faith together. Have a wonderful day, and see you tomorrow!