Advent: The Posture of Our Hearts

Advent is not a familiar teaching in some churches, like it is in more Liturgical churches. It is the four weeks leading up to Christmas, centered on the themes of Hope, Peace, Joy, and Love. Though Advent is not specifically named in Scripture, it reflects a genuine sense of expectancy felt during each Christmas season—an anticipation not of gifts, but of something spiritual.

That expectancy is rooted deeply in Scripture, especially in Isaiah’s prophecy of light coming into deep darkness and being fulfilled in Jesus Christ. Isaiah foretold the coming Messiah, and John 1 declares Jesus as the eternal Word and the true Light that darkness cannot overcome. This fulfilled hope assures believers even today, that God has already sent His light into the world through Christ.

Ultimately, Advent is less about candles or tradition and more about the posture of the heart. Hope reminds us that the Light has come, Peace is received through repentance and faith, Joy flows from welcoming Christ as King, and Love is revealed in Jesus laying down His life. Advent calls believers to live in humility, joy, peace, and love as they respond to Christ with renewed expectation.