Advent: Preparing Our Hearts for Christ’s Coming

Advent is a season of anticipation and preparation, observed during the four weeks leading up to Christmas. While it may not always be a formal part of Baptist tradition, its rich meaning and focus on Christ make it a season worth embracing. The word Advent comes from the Latin adventus, meaning “coming” or “arrival,” and it reminds us to reflect on the coming of Jesus Christ—past, present, and future.

Advent is not simply about decorating our homes or ticking off days on a calendar. It is a time to slow down and spiritually prepare our hearts for the celebration of Christ’s birth and His eventual return. This season invites us to focus on three key aspects of Jesus’ coming: His arrival in Bethlehem, His presence in our daily lives, and His return in glory.

Remembering Christ’s Birth

Advent calls us to remember the miraculous story of Jesus’ first coming. Over 2,000 years ago, God fulfilled His promise to send a Savior. The prophets of the Old Testament, like Isaiah, foretold the coming of a Messiah who would bring hope to a broken world.

Isaiah 9:6 declares, “For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given, and the government shall be upon his shoulder, and his name shall be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.”

As we reflect on the birth of Jesus, we are reminded of the humility and love of God. He came not as a powerful king but as a vulnerable baby, born in a manger. Advent reminds us to celebrate this gift of grace with awe and gratitude.

Welcoming Christ Today

Advent is also an opportunity to reflect on how Jesus comes to us now. Through His Word, the Holy Spirit, and His presence in our lives, Christ is near.

In Revelation 3:20, Jesus says, “Behold, I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears My voice and opens the door, I will come in to him and dine with him, and he with Me.”

Advent challenges us to open the door of our hearts to Christ daily. It is easy to get caught up in the busyness of the Christmas season, but Advent calls us to make room for Jesus amid the distractions. It’s a time to renew our relationship with Him, seek Him in prayer, and allow His peace to fill our hearts.

Anticipating Christ’s Return

Advent is not just about looking back at Christ’s birth; it also points us forward to His second coming. We live in expectation of the day when Jesus will return in glory to reign forever.

Titus 2:13 reminds us to be “looking for the blessed hope and glorious appearing of our great God and Savior Jesus Christ.”

This future hope encourages us to live faithfully, sharing the Gospel and loving others as we await His return. Advent reminds us to keep our eyes on eternity and live with a sense of holy anticipation.

A Devotional Call

Advent invites us to pause and prepare. Light a candle, read the Scriptures, and reflect on the wonder of Christ’s coming. As you prepare for Christmas, ask yourself: Am I making room for Jesus in my heart and life?

May this Advent season draw you closer to the Savior who came, who is present, and who is coming again. Come, Lord Jesus!

Rev. Phil Hardwick is pastor at Church of the Vine in Carver, Massachusetts.