Artwork by Dominic M.
Psalm 96:1-13
by Doug Anderson
Advent is a distinctly Christian observance. It is a time for devout meditation and self-examination. It competes with the more recently evolving customs associated with Christmas that abound at this time of year. Indeed, our Christian Christmas is over-laid with ancient Celtic winter solstice rites, northern European festivals of lights, modern day capitalism and consumerism, and a smattering of harvest feasts.
Advent is an opportunity to get your bearings, to reinvigorate your spiritual health and restore your Christian values. Today’s Scripture selection is a song of joy celebrating the experience of centering that can be found in worship, and Advent is all about centering. As the Psalmist wrote (Ps. 46:10), “Be still and know that I am God.”
Reflect that Christ calls us to new life and to a new way of living. The Christ whose birth we celebrate claims us for his own. Advent is a reminder that we must respond; we must claim Christ.