Scripture: Matthew 1-2

Advent is a season of expectation, waiting, hope, and gratitude as we prepare for the celebration of the arrival of Messiah. For centuries, the church had divided the calendar year into seasons which facilitate reflection on different aspects of our journey. Some seasons are about reflection on our sin and hang ups in preparation for the transformation of Resurrection (Easter). The season of Advent (a Latin word meaning "coming") is a season of sitting with our longings and desires and reflecting on the fact that He alone is our true desire. In the four Sundays of Advent, we focus on Longing, Waiting, Anticipation, and Gratitude. Each week, we light a candle followed by lighting the Christ candle on Christmas Eve as our reflection turns to celebration for the Christmas season (beginning on Christmas Day).