December: Humility
Humility – a modest, low, or accurate view of one’s own importance;
Advent is the first season of the Christian church year. Defined, advent means “the arrival of a notable person, thing, or event.” During the Christmas season, we celebrate the arrival of the most notable person in history, Jesus—the Son of God.
If you did not know the story of Jesus, and you relied only on your imagination to picture the arrival of the Son of God, what would you picture? You might think of a grand, mighty display of power, angels, trumpets, and a triumphant entry. You would think of a welcome fit for a king.
As we know, it wasn’t quite like this for Jesus’ arrival. Jesus left all of the comforts of heaven--His home--and stepped into our humanity in the most vulnerable way. He came as an infant. He came with ultimate humility.
So, the advent we celebrate in December is Jesus. Our notable one, our Savior, arrived with humility. May we show up this month, too. May we arrive in our homes, jobs, celebrations, and even the most ordinary things full of humility.
December: Liturgy
Leader: Father God, we recognize the power and authority that You alone hold. Thank You for modeling for us how to employ power in a healthy way. You exemplified this through humbly sending Your Son to earth.
People: You must increase; we must decrease.
Leader: Son of God, we thank You for the model of your incarnation, for coming to live among humanity. We welcome You here today and seek to imitate Your humility.
People: You must increase; we must decrease.
Leader: Spirit of God, our great Comforter, Your silent, invisible, yet powerful presence is awe-inspiring. We desire to hear Your gentle voice and experience Your peace that passes understanding.
People: You must increase; we must decrease.