ADVENT PREPARATION

by Rev. Dr. Daniel C. Wilburn

Advent is the preparation time for the coming party. The King is coming December 25th! Party preparations are always busy, filled with checklists, to-do’s, cleaning, cooking, invitations, etc. We can all relate to this flurry of activity for our own Christmas day. But this King is still coming – he comes for the heart, the soul. How then does one prepare for a party in one’s soul?
Slowly, unhurriedly, unbusy, quiet, reflective and in holiness. Advent is a time of anticipation and a time of purification. December 6th is the traditional St. Nicholas Day and it is a festive day. Many Christians give gifts on this day and have a huge meal. But the day before is fast from meat. Many Christian traditions around the world celebrate a small series of fasts and feasts during Advent. Lakeland families can capitalize on this tradition by fasting and feasting. Fasting isn’t always a “strict fast” of no food or drink. You may wish to fast from meat once a week during Advent and pray for the world’s hungry. You may wish to fast from sweets, “saving up” and building anticipation for the coming Christmas Day feasting. Be creative and build the excitement towards Christmas Day and you and your family will appreciate the day so much more.