by Matt Hein
Advent is a season of preparation for the arrival of Jesus. Traditionally, the church looks back during Advent to the prophesies, promises, and events that led to Jesus’ first coming at Christmas. Part of our preparation leads us to the celebration of Jesus’ birth in Bethlehem.
However, Advent is not only about looking back but is also forward looking to the second Advent of Jesus on the Last Day. We await that grand celebration of Resurrection and the coming of the New Creation by preparing our hearts and lives to receive Jesus again at His glorious second coming.
St. Luke-Ann Arbor is offering three different spiritual growth opportunities for adults on Sundays during Advent as part of their Advent preparation. Each option meets from 9:45am to 10:45am on Sundays 11/29, 12/6, and 12/13. Please consider the following as part of your Advent journey:
- Advent in the Word – This Bible study will explore both the traditional Advent readings from the Old and New Testaments of the Bible and how those themes are expressed in the rich tradition of Advent hymns and songs. Advent in the Word meets in room 102.
- Celebrating the Journey of Advent – This is an opportunity, in a relaxed atmosphere, to explore different ways to mark and celebrate each week of Advent in meaningful ways as families and individuals. Celebrating the Journey of Advent meets in rooms 104-105 and is especially for parents and grandparents with younger children.
- Praying through Advent – This is a time to gather for prayer, especially on the themes of Advent. Praying through Advent meets in the Library.
