This article from Wikipedia tells in detail the meaning of Advent.
They give the meaning of the word as: “Adventus is the Latin word for “coming”, and is the exact Latin equivalent for the Greek word parousia, commonly used in reference to the Second Coming. Christians believe that the season of Advent serves a dual reminder of the original waiting that was done by the Hebrews for the birth of their Messiah as well as the waiting that Christians today endure as they await the second coming of Jesus.”
This has been a whirlwind week, partly because I’ve been anticipating and preparing for our celebration of Advent. That may sound amusing – anticipating and preparing to anticipate and prepare.
Due to circumstances we haven’t celebrated Advent for the last two years, so this year I’ve found myself really looking forward to it. The start of Advent signals me to take a step back and take a fresh look at what Christmas really means.
In preparing for our celebration to begin this Sunday, I’ve gotten new candles for our Advent wreath and freshened up the trimmings. One of the books I found helpful was Becky Cortino’s new Advent Wreath Making booklet along with its accompanying devotional about the meaning of Advent. She gives detailed instructions, complete with photos, on how to assemble your own wreath. It’s still not too late to pull this together if you haven’t considered it. No, it’s not just another form of busyness – it’s taking time each evening to consider the “why’s” of Christmas.
If your evenings are too busy, you could consider using Artful Advent during your homeschool time. Don’t try to add it to an already full schedule, but omit another subject and take advantage of the season to teach your children about the coming of Christ and art. Michelle has done an outstanding job of putting it all together so you will have easy-to-teach lessons at your fingertips. Remember why we got into home education? A big part was to be able to train our children in Godly character, so it’s ok to drop some academics and focus on the coming of Christ for a time.
So join me and my family as we settle in to remember why we celebrate the coming of Christ and anticipate the second coming.
Finding Joy in the Journey,
Phyllis Sather
Phyllis Sather
Proclaiming God’s Faithfulness at:
http://www.Phyllis-Sather.com
© 2007 Phyllis Sather
All rights reserved
Contact me at: Phyllis@Phyllis-Sather.com
