Advent Invitation from the Bishop
As we come joyfully into this Holy Season, we call Advent. I am conflicted in my spirit. On one hand, we wait patiently for the coming of the Lord. Yet, on the other hand, we are waiting expecting changes to happen all around us. I am conflicted because I want this change to happen very quickly and yet Advent calls us to slow down and wait.
The Advent Season is an important time of our liturgical year to prepare us spiritually for the celebration of the Christmas Season, which does not begin until Christmas Eve and continues through the Epiphany of the Lord, (January 6, 2020).
Advent causes us to take a break from the commercialism, negative social media, and materialism that bombard us daily. You made it through the Black Friday sales and now the Church is asking you to slow down and reflect on the coming of the Lord and not to get so caught up on the Christmas sales that we truly forget that JESUS IS THE REASON FOR THE SEASON.
Overseer Emma and I encourage you and your family to consider ways you can enter into this Advent Season with an eagerness for the Lord. What small ways can you demonstrate God’s love to those in our lives and even the stranger at our gates?
Here is a thought to ponder on: maybe you should purchase your own Advent wreath for your home and light the candle(s) of the wreath and invite the family to pray together or invite friends to gather for prayer.
This year December 31st falls on a Tuesday. I asked the Disciples of True Vine the First Sunday of Advent to finish strong. What a wonderful way to end the year by making a contribution of $100.00 on Watch Night OR the very best gift you can give.