When We Hate to Wait
By Sh.aron Quek
The 4 themes of Advent
December is upon us and we are in the season of “Advent”, meaning arrival, in the Christian calendar. In this season, we remember Jesus’ first advent (arrival) about 2000 yrs ago and look forward to His second advent (arrival) when judgement will come and the world renewed!
Traditionally, there are 4 themes for each of the 4 weeks leading up to Christmas. They are 1) Week 1: Hope, 2) Week 2: Peace, 3) Week 3: Joy 4) Week 4: Love. These themes help Christians reflect deeply on the meaning of Jesus’ birth for all of mankind.
Week 1: Hope
Reflecting on biblical hope means that it is firmly grounded in the unchanging and good nature of God which inspires those who trust in Him to persevere despite challenges, to act justly and rightly before God and to serve others in love.
Week 2: Peace
Biblical peace is one that is grounded in the way of Jesus, loving others through our weakness and offering healing and restoration through love and forgiveness. Truly “peace on earth and goodwill toward men”!
Week 3: Joy
Just thinking about true biblical joy brings a smile to my face. It is not a general happiness because of good times, but a deep sense of security, peace and love rooted in God’s loving character in all times. If peace is a joy at rest, joy is peace dancing.
Week 4: Love
The reflection of love this final week before Christmas is kind demonstrated in the life that Jesus led. One that led Him to the cross, to die a painful death for all mankind. A love that is steadfast with its foundation in God’s righteous love.
Here is a link to the Bibleproject’s guide to Advent https://bibleproject.com/guides/advent/
How about you, brothers and sisters in Christ? What does the birth of Jesus mean for you? How about growing deeper through reflecting each week on the hope, peace, joy and love of God this advent season.
