What are you waiting for?

Yesterday was the start of the Advent season - a time of expectant waiting and preparation for the birth of Jesus. In our household, we have an advent wreath. It consists of three purple candles, one pink, and a center white candle surrounded by holly. On the first Sunday of Advent, one purple candle is lit. The next Sunday, two are lit, and so on. Christmas day all candles are lit. As we lit the first candle, we said a blessing. With each candle being lit, we say a verse and prayer.

Here is what will be said as three candles are lit: "Rejoice in the Lord always; again I will say, Rejoice. Philippians 4:4. Lord Jesus, we implore You to hear our prayers and to lighten the darkness of our hearts by Your gracious visitation; for You live and reign with the Father and the Holy Spirit, on God, now and forever. Amen. 'Hark! A thrilling voice is sounding! "Christ is near," we hear it say. "Cast away the works of darkness, All you children of the Day!"

Ellie and Josh enjoy the lighting and blowing out of candles the most. They also enjoy opening the little paper window on our Advent calendar, telling the story of the birth of Jesus.

We are trying to instill the importance of what this time represents to us as Christians. A time of waiting, anticipating the salvation that Simeon's eyes were allowed to see. Jesus, God with us. Savior, Christ the Lord.

What are you waiting for?