Introduction to Advent

The Advent book has long been a part of the Advent observance at University Baptist Church. Lynda Pence should be recognized and appreciated for championing this beautiful tradition. Over the years the makeup of the book has changed but the purpose has always been to enrich awareness and participation in this important season. Advent is a time of preparation, anticipation, and reflection.

We prepare our hearts and minds for the coming of Jesus. We remember his first earthly arrival, consider his return, and challenge ourselves to see Him daily amongst the world we presently live in. We anticipate all that we are promised in Christ and all that is available in the Holy Spirit we have been given. We reflect on the times we have seen, felt, and known Jesus, inviting His presence always and hoping for others to join in.

In this book you will see daily reflections on the four weeks of advent, hope, joy, peace, and love. Each day contains the Old Testament text from the Revised Common Lectionary. Individually or as a family you are invited to read this texts that look ahead to the coming of Jesus. The writings are from UBC people and come from personal experience with advent. Each week also contains a selected poem and a piece of artwork from Ford Mastin. Ford’s pieces introduce the theme of the week. Advent ends on December 21st but we have extended the book this year to include Biblical texts leading up to Christmas day. It is our desire that you will fall into the rhythm of advent with Scripture and methodical reflection. For further texts and art you can access Lectionary resources at https://lectionary.library.vanderbilt.edu/daily-readings/

Thank you to Jim Vernon for organizing the book this year and for each contributor. Also thanks to Madison Jones for editing and getting the book ready to print. If you miss a day, don’t worry. This is a resource to point you to the deliberate pace of Advent. Slow down and see Jesus.

-Justin Dunn, Pastor of UBC Shawnee