ECCLESIOLOGICAL ETCHINGS
November 29, 2022
Why is the season of Advent important? Some people would say it is not. In fact, at numerous times in Christian history, different expressions of Christianity have tossed out practices and seasons of the year for one reason or another. It’s funny how it only takes a generation or two for people to wonder why it was thrown out and whether there was anything important that should have been kept. I recognize that there are certain things about Advent that I find important, yet this is often about Bruce nostalgia and sentimentality. And for that reason, I need to constantly revisit an experience like Advent, asking myself, “Is this important for the church today, and if so, why?” And in determining the why, I need to explore whether or not the current way of celebrating will achieve the purpose. Though there are times when it appears as if Jesus was opposed to ritual, I do not believe he was. His frustration seemed to be centered on how a ritual was used. Jesus said, “The Sabbath was made for humankind and not humankind for the Sabbath…” (Mark 2:27), suggesting how institutions and religions can get the proverbial cart in front of the horse, or sometimes make the cart into a monument that will be looked at but never use. I believe Advent is helpful and healthy for both individuals and the community. It teaches and shapes us as it challenges us to emphasize the journey as having equal importance to the destination; to celebrate patience above what the culture wants; to take time to do necessary internal work that is too easily put off again and again. I hope you will take full advantage of Advent this year.
As I move between the first and second Sundays of Advent, pondering hope and looking to peace, I request your help, Lord God, as I do more than observe a holiday. I want to be a better representation of Jesus and the message that his birth conveys. Amen.
