2018 Advent Devotional Book

Decatur Presbyterian Church
2018
Advent Devotional 

Advent

Advent [ad-vent]
noun
1. a coming into place, view, or being; arrival
2. the coming of Christ into the world
3. the period beginning four Sundays before Christmas, observed in commemoration of the coming of Christ into the world.

Its synonyms are onset, beginning, and commencement.

The season of Advent has begun. It is a season of waiting and preparation. It marks the start of something. For those of us on the other side of the empty tomb, Advent anticipates both the celebration of the Incarnation of Christ (Christmas) and the coming of Christ again (at the end of all things).

In these pages you will find readings from Scripture and Advent hymns from the Glory to God hymnal. Each reading or hymn will be accompanied by a reflection written by a member of our particular community of faith. These words are shared by your sisters and brothers in Christ. Some you may know well and others you may not know at all but perhaps through this sharing we will all come to know one another more. Perhaps we will be reminded that we belong to one another. We all belong to one another because we all belong to God.

I encourage you to take some time each day in these weeks leading up to Christmas to sit with these reflections. Read the words of Scripture and the words of the hymns. Let them wash over you. Read the reflections shared by members of our community. Let them percolate in your hearts and minds. May these words help you as you prepare for the coming of Christ. May these words gathered here help you to experience the love of God, the grace of Jesus Christ, and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit in a new way.

in hope, love, peace, and joy

Rev. Alex Rodgers
Associate Pastor for Faith Formation and Congregational Care