Advent

            “The arrival of a notable person, thing, or event;” this is the dictionary definition of Advent.  Thus the Christian church refers to the season in which we celebrate the birth of Jesus as Advent.  God has arrived on earth.

            Of course, we believe God is omnipresent.  God is in all places at all times.  How can one who is already here also arrive?  In Jesus, God arrives in human flesh.  In Jesus, God’s presence is felt in a way previously unseen or unknown.  God has always been personal, but in Jesus, the personal is now touchable.  In Jesus, God can be embraced.  In Jesus, God can throw back a few beers with us.  In Jesus, we get to hear God’s laugh.  In Jesus, God can be punched and spat upon; and, nailed to a cross.

            Do you believe there is a God somewhere out there?  You’re a deist.  Do you believe that God is a personal God who affects life on earth and who gets involved in the lives of women and men?  You’re a theist.  When that personal God enters your life in a personal way and you put your trust in Him and give your life to Him, you become a Christian.  Jesus’ entrance into your life is your advent; the arrival of a new, born again existence.  If you have never entrusted yourself to Jesus, this is a wonderful time to do so.  Become a Christ follower now, and Christmas 2019 will be the most memorable you have experienced.

            For our church, it is the advent of a new day in our church life.  We, HillSong Church, become Hillside church.  We have a new name as we establish a new mission: we follow Jesus, love others, and share hope.  We’ll celebrate our new beginning on December 15, right after our 11AM worship service.  If you’re in Chapel Hill that day, come join us. 

            Wherever you are, this Christmas, entrust yourself to Jesus.  Give Him your heart.  Dedicate your life to Him.  Let this be your advent.