The word advent means “coming” or “arrival.” For centuries, different churches have created various practices to help prepare hearts, minds, calendars, congregations, families, and individuals to celebrate the coming/arrival of Christ. Through the practice of observing advent and lighting the candles of an advent wreath in the weeks before Christmas, we can look back at how God was faithful to fulfill His promise of a Messiah and then look forward to the promise of Christ’s return. Advent helps us trust that since God was faithful in the past, He will be faithful in the future.
