Advent is…
Come, though long-expected Jesus,
Born to set thy people free;
For me Advent is about watching and waiting for the coming of our long expected Jesus. It is about trying to find time each day in a busy and crowded diary to just to spend a few moments pondering on the wonder, generosity, and grace of God. A God who will again this year send his Son into a world that needs him more, now, for all of us.
Sadly for many, Advent is replaced by Christmas and all its preparations as we all run around in ever increasing chaos making sure that we have everything needed to indulge ourselves on The Big Day. The problem is that by the time that day arrives we are exhausted and all we want to do is collapse in a heap in front of the box and miss what the season of Advent has been preparing us all for.
So with my usual vigour I urge you to find that few moments each day, it really will make the coming season even more special for you.
…from our fears and sins release us;
Let us find our rest in thee.
– Canon David Baldwin, Rector of the Beaminster Team