Advent

This is the third Christmas season since my divorce. It gets a little easier each year, although "easier" doesn't really seem like an appropriate word. Still, I find that the most difficult thing about it stems from my own wrong perception of what the season is supposed to be about. I take, and often keep, my eyes off Christ and focus on this season as being a time of family and fun. Not that it can't and shouldn't be those things -- families and couples should of course celebrate together. But the coming of Christ represents a new order and the eventual bringing of all creation under the subjection of the righteous and holy king, and a kingdom of peace where there are no more tears. This is cause for rejoicing no matter what your current situation is. In fact, if your current situation isn't all that great, your expectation and rejoicing should be even greater.

Come, Thou Long Expected Jesus
by Charles Wesley

1. Come, thou long expected Jesus,
born to set thy people free;
from our fears and sins release us,
let us find our rest in thee.
Israel's strength and consolation,
hope of all the earth thou art;
dear desire of every nation,
joy of every longing heart.

2. Born thy people to deliver,
born a child and yet a King,
born to reign in us forever,
now thy gracious kingdom bring.
By thine own eternal spirit
rule in all our hearts alone;
by thine all sufficient merit,
raise us to thy glorious throne.