The Advent season is supposed to invite us to step away from the busyness of December and rediscover the beauty of the Christmas story and the hope it brings to our lives, no matter the circumstances. But in our culture, we feel content to blow past Advent and rush ahead into Christmas, Advent calls us to pause and reflect through scripture readings, prayers, and quiet moments. We’re encouraged to focus on the heart of Christmas -God’s love for us in Jesus. But every time we try to slow down, it feels like something pushes us back into the rush of the season. The whole concept of Advent sounds a little too idealistic amid the chaotic Christmas season we have come to know. But what if it didn’t have to? What if, this year, you could slow down just a bit? This Wed, at Faith, we will talk about how we can slow down so that the chaos of Christmas doesn't cause us to miss the beauty of the Christmas story.

Luke 2:1-7

The Birth of Jesus Christ

2 In those days a decree went out from Caesar Augustus that all the world should be registered. 2 This was the first registration when Quirinius was governor of Syria. 3 And all went to be registered, each to his own town. 4 And Joseph also went up from Galilee, from the town of Nazareth, to Judea, to the city of David, which is called Bethlehem, because he was of the house and lineage of David, 5 to be registered with Mary, his betrothed, who was with child. 6 And while they were there, the time came for her to give birth. 7 And she gave birth to her firstborn son and wrapped him in swaddling cloths and laid him in a manger, because there was no place for them in the inn. 

Galatians 4:4-5

4 But when the fullness of time had come, God sent forth his Son, born of woman, born under the law, 5 to redeem those who were under the law, so that we might receive adoption as sons.

Psalm 4:7-8

7 You have put more joy in my heart than they have when their grain and wine abound. 

8 In peace I will both lie down and sleep; for you alone, O LORD, make me dwell in safety. 

Matthew 11:27-30

28 Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. 29 Take my yoke upon you, and learn from me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. 30 For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.”

Galatians 4:4-5

4 But when the fullness of time had come, God sent forth his Son, born of woman, born under the law, 5 to redeem those who were under the law, so that we might receive adoption as sons.