The four weeks leading up to Christmas are known as advent or “coming”. Advent season is practiced in anticipation of the celebration of Jesus’ birth for those in the Christian faith. Although advent is traditionally applied in the celebration of the coming of Christ, it is a wonderful way to prepare your heart for the arrival of your baby. Just like how Mary and Israelites for centuries waited diligently for Christ’s arrival, you are waiting for the arrival of your own baby. During this time of waiting, people often focus on four advent themes: Hope. Faith. Joy. Peace. Today, we will take a closer look at these four themes and apply them to this time of waiting for your baby.
Hope
Hope is defined as anticipation for a promised future. Parents across the world dream big about the future of their child despite any present circumstances, good or bad. Ask yourself what future you hope for for your child and allow this to strengthen your heart. Hope is not only a feeling, it is an action. It is diligently taking steps to prepare for this promised dream you have. How can you work toward your promised hope? Muskegon Pregnancy Services offers free services that can lift you up and help you feel hope!
Faith
Faith is where you put your trust. The advent season is the perfect time to assess if your trust is put in the right place. Ask yourself if you trust in the Lord, your own actions, others, or something else, and then ask yourself if this is worthy of your trust. If your trust is in the Lord, He will never let you or your growing baby down, no matter your present circumstances.
Joy
Many people think of “happiness” when they think of joy, but the advent season challenges us to think deeper about joy. Joy is not dependent on our feelings, circumstances, or anything besides where we put our faith. It is a combination of hope and faith in Jesus. We are also given the gift of joy with the coming of a new child so dearly anticipated. Ask yourself if you are experiencing joy for your coming child even when things feel grim. Think… “the weary world rejoices!”
Peace
Lastly, let’s take a closer look at peace. Even if your current circumstances preparing for your baby feel overwhelming, the hope, faith, and joy for your baby can still bring you peace. You guessed it, peace goes beyond what is happening around you, but instead comes from your heart. Are you taking the time to calm your heart as you wait for your baby?
Advent Season: A Chance to Refocus
So no matter what difficulties you are facing or heartaches have come your way, advent is a time of refocusing on your expected gift. We encourage you to take to heart the four themes above during advent, whether that is waiting for Christmas or the birth of your own gift: your baby. We know things around you may be spinning, but allow yourself to stand still for just a moment to refocus.
