Remember the old Advent Calendars? Each day in December you would open the next window to reveal another scene or Bible verse. Historians believe the practice was first begun by German Lutherans in the 19th century. Since the early calendars some take offs have had a small chocolate treat or perhaps a tiny toy behind the window. As each day passed the expectancy grew for the great festival of Christmas.
What will you do during this year’s Advent season of expectancy? There are so many rich traditions that every family has to draw on: Christmas Cards, decorations, baking, and invitations to social events. These are just a few common ones. Perhaps last year’s lockdown during the pandemic meant that none of the favorite traditions were practiced.
This year as the pandemic has lessened, you may have decided to make your celebration more robust to counter the minimalist experience of last year. Whatever your decision, please remember to prepare your hearts for a spirit of new joy in welcoming the miracle of the birth of the one that has come to renew and redeem our lives.
~ Rev. Dr. Fred Leasure, Parish Associate