Advent, which comes from a Latin term meaning “coming or arrival”, is a season that invites us to look forward to Christ’s return in anticipation by looking back at Christ’s birth in celebration. As we gather for worship on the four Sundays of Advent (November 27, December 4, December 11, and December 18) and on Christmas Eve (in-person and online) and Christmas Day (online only), we will be exploring the messiness and marvelousness of Jesus coming into our world to seek and save the lost, and we will be cultivating a sense of hope and expectation as we prepare from Jesus’ coming again to make all things new.

Coupled with our Sunday morning worship gatherings, we invite you to cultivate a sense of hope expectation during the weeks of Advent by reading and reflecting the scripture passages below, some of which we are discussing together on Sundays and others which Christians around are reading as a part of the Revised Common Lectionary.

Each week consists of five readings. You are welcome to read and reflect on these passages in the way that best helps you connect with Christ; however, we invite you consider meditating on these passages by using an ancient practice called Lectio Divina. In this slow way of reading scripture, you will move the following four movements:

Read: Read the scripture passage slowly. Notice which words or phrases catch your attention.
Meditate: Read the passage again, focusing on the parts that stood out in your first reading. Consider what God might be trying to show or tell you.
Pray: Read the passage a third time. Tell God the thoughts or questions the passage has sparked in you and invite God to speak.
Contemplate: Sit quietly in God’s presence and rest in God’s deep love for you.