The season of Advent is a period characterized by expectant waiting and preparing to celebrate the birth of Jesus. For centuries this season has helped people to connect with the past (a Hebrew people who longed for the birth of their Messiah) and to anticipate the future (a desire for Christ’s second coming and fulfilling the re-creation of all things).
One of Advent’s most familiar symbols is the candle. An accompanying (but less often linked) aspect is intentional prayer. In movement toward Christmas, toward celebrating God’s revelation through Christ, we recognize our longing for increased awareness of God and for deeper commitment to joining his reconciling all things. It’s through intentional prayers that we ask for and pursue those next steps, walking into ‘this great light’ that has dawned (Isaiah 9:2).
During this season of waiting, we invite you to join others in demonstrating devotion and commitment – to be in some ways sustained – through humble prayers. Each week you’ll have opportunity here to engage a guided experience based on the Prayer of Examen. In four portions (presence, gratitude, review, response) you’ll be prompted toward a new awareness of God’s activity around you.
Practice these readings daily to establish a tone of prayer this season, connecting with Christ and Christmas in fresh ways through the bright anticipation that is Advent.
Scripture taken from the Holy Bible,
Today's New International Version®, TNIV®.
© 2001, 2005 by International Bible Society.
Used by permission of Zondervan. All rights reserved.