Our sermon series for the advent season of 2020 is “The Blessing of Advent.” The title is a double entendre. First, we mean to highlight the blessed truth that the advent season is a blessing to us. It’s a season of the year that invites us to reflect upon the fact that God is with us (Immanuel). In Jesus, we experience belonging in the family of God. Our waiting for the Lord produces steadfastness. And in this all, God is pursuing us. Second, we want to highlight that advent is a blessing we receive. Jesus is the blessing of advent. Jesus is the hope of the world. Jesus is a gift we receive.

2020 has been a disruptive year for us all. The obvious list includes the pandemic, civil unrest, and a disruptive election year. Underneath this all, we're left with a deep sense of weariness. We hope for peace and freedom. We hope for rest and renewal. Advent reminds us that Jesus begins these realities for us. The world is weary, but in Jesus, the weary world can rejoice. This is because, as the hymn says, "for yonder breaks a new and glorious morn."

Come weary, come tired, come ready to receive.