Christian Living Blog

As I was growing up I was unaware  of Advent. It wasn’t part of my church’s traditions. We celebrated Christmas certainly, with songs, pageants, and gifts. I particularly remember one time in junior high when I played an angel. We sang “Angels We Have Heard in High” and I made a halo out of gold star garland wire.  It’s still sitting in my old bedroom. But Advent is a more recent addition to my holiday mindset. I was introduced to it by the church I now attend through the use of the Advent wreath.  I now have an advent wreath at home. This will be the third Christmas that my husband and I will light the candles and say the prayers.

Now, it’s not the act itself of lighting a candle that makes me remember and anticipate the coming of Christ. It’s not a formula. But it does help. I forget all that God has done and need the reminder. Somewhere in my reading, it was said that ritual and ceremony aren’t really for God. He doesn’t need our worship and adoration. He can certainly exist and be glorious without us, but practices like lighting advent wreaths, or keeping an advent calendar help us look to Him.  And when we pause and look to him in the midst of the daily craziness of life, we worship.

Fear is like an invisible prison. It holds you captive, influencing your choices and perceptions about life, God, and other people. Can you imagine what your life would be like without fear? With so much going wrong in the world it can seem hard to picture. In Fearless, Max Lucado author of 3:16: The Numbers of Hope, and pastor of Oak Hills Church, shows you how life can be lived with confidence and joy, when you replace your fear with faith. Let this inspiring and timely message encourage your heart today!