A Season of Preparation, A Sanctuary of Hope
When I returned from Thanksgiving and stepped into our sanctuary, I was overwhelmed with joy and gratitude. The transformation was stunning. To all who stayed after worship on November 23 to hang garlands, arrange greenery, and light up the space with the hope of the season, I want to say, Thank You. You gave us all a gift. If you weren’t able to be here, I’ve included a photo above so you can see the beauty for yourself.
This first week of Advent has already reminded me how much we need the quiet expectancy it offers. While the world rushes toward December 25th with lists, deadlines, and decorations, the church invites us to slow down and prepare. Prepare our church, our homes, and our hearts.
What is Advent, and why do we celebrate it?
Advent marks the beginning of the Christian year, a four-week season of anticipation. The word Advent means coming, and during this time, we prepare for Christ’s arrival—not only in the manger, but also in our lives, our relationships, and in the world around us. It's not just a countdown to Christmas; it’s a spiritual journey.
In Advent, we are invited to watch, to wait, and to wonder.
Each candle we light reminds us of a promise: hope, peace, joy, and love. But these are not passive emotions. They are the fruits of faithful expectation. Advent challenges us to make space in our crowded lives for something sacred, surprising, and deeply transformative.
So how do we “make room”?
It doesn’t have to be grand or complicated. Maybe it’s as simple as lighting a candle at dinner, when you wake up, or saying a one-sentence prayer. Maybe it’s choosing to give your full attention to a conversation. Maybe it’s a moment of silence before bed where you ask, “God, what are you trying to show me today?”
This Sunday, we continue our Journey to Bethlehem, and our next stop brings us to Jerusalem. It may surprise some that we’re not going straight to the manger. But Jerusalem reminds us of the larger story, the longing of a people for deliverance, the hope of prophets, and the stirrings of something new.
This Sunday in worship, we’ll step into that longing and explore what it means to hope for peace, not only in our world, but in our own hearts.
If you’ve been away, this is a beautiful time to return. If you’ve never been, you are welcome here. Let this Advent season be your invitation, not to do more, but to notice more. To wonder more. To prepare room, even just a little, for what God might be doing in and through you.
See you on Sunday!
With Gratitude,
Rev. Rodney Whitfield
Senior Pastor
Aldersgate UMC