God’s Love for Us — First Sunday of Advent

I’ve never done this before. I’ve never celebrated Advent. My first real understanding of the whole celebration came from a BJU Christmas Vespers as an undergrad, directed by Bill Pinkston. I don’t remember much about the presentation except the repeated theme of all the Israelites looking for the Messiah — Eve and Sarah, Isaac and Jacob, David and Isaiah — all were waiting, waiting, waiting. Something about the music and the spectacle made an lingering impression on me like all Vespers intend to.

But this first Sunday of Advent has impressed me similarly. And I’m stunned that you liturgical sorts get to do this every. single. year! Where have I been?

We read:

• I John 4:7-19
• Zephaniah 3:14-17
• Luther’s Sermon

We remember:

• I Samuel 16:1-13
• The Tree itself

We sing:

God’s command to love each other is required of every man.
Showing mercy to a brother mirrors his redemptive plan.
In compassion He has given of His love that is divine;
On the cross sins were forgiven; joy and peace are fully thine.

Come in praise and adoration, all who on Christ’s name believe.
Worship Him with consecration, grace and love will you receive.
For His grace give Him the glory, for the Spririt and the Word,
And repeat the gospel story till all men His name have heard.

After all this and a busy afternoon of decorating, even my dear littlest got the message. He bounced into the kitchen to tell me, “Mommy!! Church isss fun! . . . Jesus loves ME, Mommy!”