Say to the fearful of heart: Be strong, do not fear! Here is your God, he comes with vindication; With divine recompense he comes to save you. (Isaiah 35:4)
Well, it’s Advent. Now what? Even if we know that Advent is a season of preparation, we’re not always sure how to proceed. What can we do to make sure that our Advent is successful?
After praying about it, I have identified 5 components necessary for a good Advent. As is typically the case with spiritual recommendations, these suggestions are simple to understand, but not always easy to implement.
Awareness – I need to be aware that something is missing in my life and recognize that Jesus can make a difference.
Desire – Once I acknowledge that I have needs that only Jesus can meet, I must desire to welcome Him more fully into my life.
Expectation – I need to believe that Jesus will respond to my desire by showing up and making a difference.
Determination – In order for Jesus to work in my life, I must resolve to do everything in my power to make room for Him.
Patience – Advent is a season of waiting. Jesus operates on His own schedule. I have to accept that I can’t force Him to act in a certain way at a specific time.
Over the course of the next few weeks, we’ll be working on this together. In the meantime, let’s continue to pray that simple prayer we discussed yesterday. If you invite Him, He will show up.
Come, Lord Jesus!
