ADVENT 2015: Reflection for the Fourth Sunday of Advent - Peace Church
Introduction
Welcome to Peace Church's reflection for the Fourth Sunday of Advent, December 20. As a faith-based community, we find great joy in celebrating Advent, a season of anticipation and preparation for the birth of Jesus Christ. In this reflection, we invite you to explore the profound themes of hope, love, joy, and peace that are central to the Advent season.
The Significance of Advent
Advent is a time of reflection, renewal, and expectant waiting. It marks the beginning of the liturgical year and prepares us for the upcoming celebration of Christmas. As we journey through the four Sundays of Advent, we focus on different aspects of the Christian faith that highlight the importance of this season.
1. Hope
Hope is a powerful force that sustains us during challenging times. In Advent, we embrace hope as we eagerly anticipate the arrival of the promised Messiah. We reflect on the Old Testament prophecies that foretold the birth of Jesus, reminding us that God is faithful and will fulfill His promises.
2. Love
Love is at the core of the Christmas story. Advent offers us an opportunity to meditate on the unconditional love of God, who sent His Son Jesus to dwell among us. We reflect on the incredible sacrifice made out of love, reminding us of the importance of expressing love and compassion towards others.
3. Joy
Advent is a season of great joy. Through the birth of Jesus, we find true and everlasting joy. We are reminded that no matter the struggles we face, the presence of Christ brings joy into our lives. This season encourages us to embrace this joy and share it with those around us.
4. Peace
Peace is a central theme of Advent. In a world often marred by turmoil, Advent reminds us of the peace that Jesus brings. It is a call for us to seek inner peace and work towards peace in our communities and the world. As we prepare to celebrate Christmas, we reflect on the Prince of Peace who brings reconciliation and harmony.
Preparation and Celebration
During Advent, we engage in various practices and traditions that guide us in our preparation for Christmas. These may include lighting Advent candles, observing Advent calendars, taking part in acts of kindness, and engaging in prayer and Scripture readings.
1. Lighting Advent Candles
One popular tradition is the lighting of Advent candles. Each Sunday of Advent, a new candle is lit, symbolizing the growing anticipation and light that Jesus brings into the world. The four candles represent hope, love, joy, and peace, while the central fifth candle, often lit on Christmas Eve, represents the birth of Jesus.
2. Observing Advent Calendars
Advent calendars are another cherished tradition. These calendars, often filled with chocolates or small treats, mark each day leading up to Christmas. They serve as a daily reminder of the joy and excitement of the Advent season.
3. Acts of Kindness
Advent is an ideal time to engage in acts of kindness. By giving back to our communities and showing love and compassion to those in need, we emulate the values that Jesus taught during His time on Earth. Small acts of kindness can have a profound impact and bring hope and joy to others.
4. Prayer and Scripture Readings
Prayer and Scripture readings play a crucial role in Advent. Taking time to reflect on the Word of God and communicate with Him through prayer helps us deepen our connection with Christ. It enables us to truly absorb the significance of the Advent season and prepares our hearts for His coming.
Celebrating the Birth of Jesus
As Advent draws to a close, we eagerly anticipate the arrival of Christmas, a time when we celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ. Our hearts are filled with gratitude and joy as we gather in our faith communities, sing carols, and reflect on the miraculous event that forever changed the world.
Join Us
Peace Church welcomes you to join us in celebrating Advent and Christmas. Our faith community is open to all, and we encourage you to explore the teachings of Jesus, find solace in the fellowship of believers, and experience the love and hope that the Advent season brings.
Conclusion
As the Fourth Sunday of Advent approaches, let us take the time to pause, reflect, and prepare our hearts for the birth of Jesus. May the themes of hope, love, joy, and peace resonate deeply within us as we embrace this sacred season. We invite you to join Peace Church in this spiritual journey and experience the transformative power of Advent.
