Advent teaches believers to look forward

We are now in Advent. The first Sunday of Advent was just this past Sunday.

Let’s get something straight right off the bat. Advent is NOT the 12 days of Christmas. The 12 days start on Dec. 26 and go to Epiphany or Jan. 6. We will talk about that later. But just remember the 12 days come after Christmas, not before.

Advent is a time of watchful expectation. We often use the time of Advent to prepare our houses and churches for Dec. 25. It’s often used as the party warm-up to Jesus’ birthday party. But in all actuality, Advent isn’t really about the birth of Christ.

I know, I probably upset a few people about that. But, in reality, Advent is looking forward to something that is going to happen, not something that has happened. (Before you get upset, this is my opinion, and if it doesn’t agree with you, that’s okay.)

Christ has been born. We have Biblical and extra-biblical evidence of the event. We celebrate his birthday every year, even if some people don’t realize it.

But Advent corresponds with Matthew 24:44, “Therefore you also must be ready, for the Son of Man is coming at an hour you do not expect,” and John 14:3, “And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again and will take you to myself, that where I am you may be also.” There are a plethora of verses in the New Testament that tell of Christ’s return. Advent is supposed to be a time of reflecting and focusing on our future with Christ.

Now, I’m not saying that preparing to celebrate Dec. 25th is a bad thing. Christmas reminds us of what God has done for us through his son Jesus Christ. Christmas points to the Cross and then to the Resurrection.

So yes, let’s celebrate Christmas with all the joy, peace, and love that we can muster.

But, let’s not forget that there is a future for all who believe in Christ as their savior. Advent is our time of reflection on that very premise. Christ has promised he will return. Even though we don’t know when, and will not know until he comes, we can still look forward to His return.

So, now is the time to get to church (yes, I am still going to remind you of that), and start preparing your self for the return of our Savior.

But wait, there is more. Not only do we need to prepare, but we also need to help others know about the return of Christ. We need to have our lamps lit, but also help others fill their lamps. This means; inviting others to church, talking to others about the love of Christ, starting bible studies and teaching the three rules of Christ (Love God, Love Neighbor, Love One Another.)

I know that there are some folks preparing for the end of the world. They are stock piling food, guns, supplies and hiding in deep holes throughout the land. Advent teaches us the correct way to prepare, because we don’t prepare for the end, we are getting ready for the beginning.

See you in church.

Rev. Kent Wilfong is the pastor at the United Methodist Church, Doniphan/Neelyville.