We Remember the Meaning of Advent
Advent is a word that means “coming” or “visit”.  In the Christian season of Advent we prepare for the “advent” of Christ at Christmas.  Our preparation includes many things:

• We remember Israel’s hope for the coming of God’s Messiah to save, to forgive, and to restore them.
• We remember our hope for the second coming of Jesus.
• We remember our need for a Savior to save us from our sins.
• We prepare to welcome Christ at Christmas into our world . . . and into our hearts.

By lighting one candle each week of Advent, we help ourselves to get ready for the birth of Jesus.  So far we have lit three candles.  The first reminded us to wait for God our Shepherd.  With the second we asked the Lord to come and forgive our sins.  The third, pink, candle signified our joy as we wait.
Today we focus on the coming of the Son — the son of Mary, the Son of God!
Prayer for God’s Help
Dear God, thank you for this season of Advent that helps us to prepare for the coming of Christ at Christmas.  As we read the Bible and light a candle, may excitement for Christ’s coming burn in our hearts.  Amen.
For the continuation of this Advent devotional, and for the “lighting” of the Advent candle, click here.