Why Advent: Preparing for the Coming King

Every December, Christians around the world enter a season called Advent - a word that simply means “coming” or “arrival.” While Christmas often feels fast-paced and frantic, Advent calls us to slow down, look up, and remember why the birth of Jesus Christ is the most hope-filled event in human history. Observing Advent isn’t about empty ritual; it is a biblical practice that helps anchor our hearts in the story of redemption.

Advent Reminds Us of Our Need for a Savior

Advent begins in the dark. Not because winter days are short, but because Scripture tells the truth about the human condition. Before Jesus came, we were people “walking in darkness” (Isaiah 9:2). Advent invites us to remember that apart from Christ, we are lost in sin, incapable of saving ourselves.

By reflecting on Israel’s long waiting for the Messiah, we learn to see our own spiritual need with fresh clarity. We remember why Jesus had to come and why we still depend on Him today.

Advent Anchors Us in the Full Story of Scripture

The birth of Jesus is not a standalone moment. It is the culmination of God’s redemptive plan:

• The promise in Genesis 3:15 of a coming Deliverer

• The covenant made with Abraham

• The throne promised to David

• The hope proclaimed by the prophets

Advent pulls these threads together, showing how all of Scripture points to Christ. The season becomes a yearly reminder that God keeps every promise He makes perfectly, fully, and in His timing.

Advent Builds Holy Anticipation for Christ’s Return

Advent looks back to Jesus’ first coming and forward to His second. Just as Israel waited for the Messiah, we now wait for the day He returns to make all things new. Jesus Himself tells us to watch, prepare, and stay alert (Matthew 24:42). Advent trains our hearts to long - not for presents or parties but for the coming King who will rule in righteousness and bring the fullness of His kingdom. The Advent cry, “Come, Lord Jesus!” (Revelation 22:20), becomes our own.

Advent Cultivates Worship in the Busyness

Our schedules fill fast in December. It doesn’t take long for the season meant to celebrate Christ to crowd Him out. Advent re-centers us. Through Scripture reading, prayer, candles, songs, and intentional rhythms, Advent creates space for worship. When we slow down to consider the wonder of the incarnation - that the eternal Son “became flesh and dwelt among us” (John 1:14) - our hearts are stirred to adoration. Advent brings us back to awe.

Advent Helps Families and Churches Disciple the Next Generation

Yearly rhythms shape us more than we realize. When families and churches observe Advent together, we pass along the story of Christ in a way that is tangible, memorable, and repeatable. Children learn to anticipate Jesus. Adults are reminded of hope. The entire church walks through the gospel narrative together. In an age of constant distractions, Advent forms a counter-culture of intentional discipleship.

Advent Keeps Christ at the Center of Christmas

Let’s be honest - our culture is skilled at celebrating Christmas without Christ.

Advent pushes back against that drift. It invites us to approach Christmas morning not rushed or exhausted, but spiritually ready to rejoice in the gift of our Savior. By the time December 25 arrives, our hearts are primed to celebrate the arrival of Emmanuel - God with us.

A Season Worth Observing

Advent is more than candles, colors, or calendars. It is a gospel-saturated rhythm that helps God’s people remember, rejoice, and reorient around Jesus Christ. In observing Advent, we join the ancient church, the global church, and the future church in proclaiming:

Christ has come. Christ is here. Christ will come again.

May this Advent season awaken in you a deeper love for Jesus and a renewed longing for His return.