Episode 206 - Advent: What's the Big Deal?

Nov 30, 2021

Advent is upon us. This is a season of preparation. It’s a season of anticipation. Throughout December we'll explore the question, "What’s the big deal about advent for Christ-centered leaders?" 

This episode bridges the gratitude theme from November with our focus for December centering around the incarnation.

What's the Big Deal About Advent?

Part of the reason Advent is a big deal is it offers many reasons to be grateful.

• We are grateful that God is with us.
• We are grateful for the promised hope being realized.
• We are grateful that Jesus changed the way people interacted, confronting division with peace.
• We are grateful for the journey of Mary and Joseph that modeled what ushering love into the world looks like. 

The epistle reading from the lectionary this week even pointed to gratitude. The author is giving God thanks for their love and faith. Listen to the prayer that emerges from this passage... 

1 Thessalonians 3:10-13

3:10 Night and day we pray most earnestly that we may see you face to face and restore whatever is lacking in your faith.

3:11 Now may our God and Father himself and our Lord Jesus direct our way to you.

3:12 And may the Lord make you increase and abound in love for one another and for all, just as we abound in love for you.

3:13 And may he so strengthen your hearts in holiness that you may be blameless before our God and Father at the coming of our Lord Jesus with all his saints.

So, yes, as we prepare and anticipate the coming of Christ, we are grateful for all that advent and Christmas means. AND…

As we step into this season, let’s begin with the truth and consequences of this season. 

Truth and Consequences of the Incarnation

The truth and consequences of the incarnation are that God became flesh and moved into the neighborhood. God isn’t picking lottery numbers deciding who to make Godself available to; God is available to all. And that is something to be grateful for. 

Because at the moment that you’re frustrated, God is there.

At the moment that you’re grateful, God is there.

In the moment of laughter, God is there.

In every moment, God is with us.

The question is, are you aware of God’s presence? 

And that, my friends, is the journey of advent. The preparation for God to be birthed again into our lives is a big deal. 

Big Question for the Week

What makes Advent a big deal for you? Let us know at connect@ transformingmission.org or use the hashtag #adventisabigdeal on social media.