November 13th 2011

The season of Advent starts in two weeks on November 27th. Before we start preparing for Christmas, let us give some thought of preparing for Advent. It is a season of looking forward to Christ’s coming, not only his coming as a Babe in Bethlehem but also as we look forward to his second coming here on earth.

Once again, I fall back on the Collects for guidance and summing up of thoughts for each week. Turn to the BAS (the green book) and page 268. These are the four central thoughts taken from each of the four Advent Collects.

1. May we rise to life immortal

2. May we stand with confidence before his glory

3. May he find us waiting in awe and wonder

4. May we in all things embrace his will

It would be good if we were to meditate on each of these thoughts during the Advent season. Very often I find it hard to distinguish in my thinking between his final coming to the whole world and my own individual entering into his presence when I leave this world. Undoubtedly it all emanates from Number 4 which speaks of embracing his will. What does the thought of embracing his will conjure up for you? Does it mean embracing him in complete surrender to his love? Does it mean submitting to his will and power? Think on these things and more this Advent. Next week, I hope to share with you, thoughts about encircling your family in meaningful preparation to greet our saviour at Christmas.