Do you have a Christmas countdown tradition? I remember from a young age watching as my Mom removed a large tri-fold paper card go from the box of decorations and place it on top of the china cabinet. It was our advent calendar, an illustration of a city street on a winter’s night.
Upon close inspection, you’d notice small perforated squares with numbers. As each day of December passed we would lift a flap to reveal another layer of the picture. We’d find a fireplace behind a window, an owl under tree branches, angels in flight hiding in the starry sky, and opening the barn door numbered 24, a glowing scene of baby Jesus in a manger.
In my teens calendars containing waxy chocolate shapes replaced my interest in mystery pictures. Now Advent calendars are a marketing ploy, containing everything from limited edition teas to million dollar jewellery. Don’t let the simple joys of the season be overtaken by commercial pressure to indulge or impress. Advent is a season to develop patient expectation. The act of waiting and anticipation should focus on celebrating the gift of Jesus.
Take this opportunity to remember that prophecy was fulfilled in Jesus infant incarnation. God keeps His promises and He will be coming back to earth again to be reunited with us forever. (John 14:3). It will bring an excess of joy and love beyond our experience of any human holiday. Are you waiting for that day as eagerly and earnestly as you long for Christmas?