If you haven’t noticed a theme yet, my non-Advent practicing self has been spending some time this season considering the themes of Advent. And as I’ve spent time reflecting on the promises of Hope, Joy, Love, and Peace, I find myself returning again and again to an idea that appears quietly in the background often going unnoticed yet can be powerfully freeing once revealed.
Advent isn’t a command but an invitation.
That’s it. Shocking I know.
I grew up seeing the church, Christianity, God, and prayer, (fill in the blank with your churchy word) as being more of a command. You were supposed to…expected to…pray, attend church, read your Bible, etc or God would be angry at you, disappointed in you, and therefore punish you because you broke a rule or command.
But as I’ve gotten older and learned more, I’ve realized that’s not how God is at all. I think if you asked Him, He’d tell you how every time He’s viewed this way, it hurts His heart.
Advent, church, and God Himself are not commands waiting to be broken & punished but invitations for a gift you can choose to open or not. They’re yours and cost you nothing to receive or reject. You are simply invited to open the gifts of this season.
God is not waiting to guilt you or punish you depending on your decision. He knows the good things He has planned; He also knows the difficult and heartbreaking things you have endured. He understands the tenderness of your heart this season and simply invites you to know Him…trust Him… receive Him and let Him hold the hurts, the disappointments, and the sorrow and replace each with His Advent gift.
But, it’s okay if you’re not ready yet to let go. It’s okay if the idea of trusting anyone feels like more than your heart can bear. He’s patient. His Advent gifts are yours whether you choose to receive them today, next month, or next year. They belong to you.
I hope, when you’re ready, you’ll take your invitation, as I have mine, and simply receive this Advent season. Receive all that Jesus died to give you. Receive the Hope that is already yours, the Love that heals broken hearts, the Peace that replaces worry, and receive the Joy you thought had died.
This Christmas…and every day in between… you, my amazing friend, are invited to open & receive. Nothing else from you is required.
Rooted Leaders 