The word “advent” comes from the Latin adventus, meaning the coming, or the arrival. The season of Advent in the Church appeared as early as the fourth century in an effort to draw our attention and stir our anticipation of our Savior’s coming at Christmas. Today, Advent still serves as a time of preparation for our hearts by setting aside the time leading up to Christmas to press into the longing for the promised return of Jesus.
Join us in our Christmas series: “Everlasting Father” from the 8th of December as we look towards Christmas and the gift of Emmanuel, God with us. To the invitation of the Father – where our hearts find home.
Week One: The Light Has Come
Scriptures: Isaiah 9:2, 6; John 1:4-5, 9-14; John 8:12; 1 John 2:8
“The people walking in darkness have seen a great light…” — Isaiah 9:2
“The true light that gives light to everyone was coming into the world.” — John 1:9
Reflection:
As the Advent season begins, we remember that Jesus, the Light of the World, has come to pierce the darkness. From the moment of His birth, a glimmer of hope illuminated a world in shadows. Imagine the shepherds’ amazement as the heavens lit up with the glory of God, proclaiming the birth of a Saviour. Jesus is not only a light in history; He is our Light today, dispelling darkness with His presence.
Meditation: In what areas of your life do you need Jesus’ light? How does His presence bring you peace, even in moments of fear or doubt?
Prayer: Lord Jesus, thank You for being the Light of the World. Shine Your light in my heart, that I may see clearly and walk in hope. Amen.
Week Two: What a Saviour
Scriptures: Luke 2:8-12; Philippians 2:6-8; Isaiah 53:5
“For unto you is born this day…a Saviour, who is Christ the Lord.” — Luke 2:11
“He was pierced for our transgressions, he was crushed for our iniquities…” — Isaiah 53:5
Reflection:
This week, we ponder Jesus, our humble Saviour, who left heaven to be born among us. God’s plan to redeem us began in the humility of a manger, but it didn’t stop there. Jesus came to save us from darkness, sin, and separation, offering us adoption into God’s family. As C.S. Lewis wrote, “The Son of God became a man to enable men to become sons of God.” His life was a gift of grace, bringing us back to the Father’s heart.
Meditation: Reflect on the ways Jesus has been your Saviour. How has He brought you out of darkness and into His light?
Prayer: Jesus, You came for me, humbling Yourself so that I could know the love of the Father. I am in awe of Your love and grace. Help me to live in gratitude and wonder. Amen.
Week Three: The King and His Kingdom
Scriptures: Isaiah 9:6-7; Matthew 2:1-2; Revelation 11:15
“And the government will be on his shoulders…” — Isaiah 9:6
“His kingdom will never end.” — Luke 1:33
Reflection:
Jesus is not only our Saviour but our King, and He ushers in a kingdom of peace, justice, and righteousness. As we prepare our hearts for Christmas, we look beyond the nativity to the Kingdom Jesus came to establish. This is a kingdom not of earthly power but of everlasting love and hope, and a King unlike any other.
Meditation: How do you experience the kingdom of God in your life? How is Jesus calling you to live as a citizen of His kingdom?
Prayer: King Jesus, thank You for inviting me into Your kingdom. Help me to live as a reflection of Your love and justice in the world. Amen.
Christmas Eve: The Christmas Story
Scriptures: Luke 2:1-20; Matthew 1:22-23; John 1:14
“And the Word became flesh and dwelt among us…” — John 1:14
“Immanuel…God with us.” — Matthew 1:23
Reflection:
At Christmas, we celebrate the miracle of the Incarnation—God with us. Jesus, the Son of God, took on human flesh and entered our world as a vulnerable child. This is the ultimate expression of God’s desire to be with us. The stable in Bethlehem was more than a birthplace; it was a declaration of God’s humility and heart to meet us where we are. He came not only to bring us salvation but to bring us close, to dwell with us.
Meditation: Consider the love it took for God to come to us in the form of a child. How does this story of God’s nearness impact your faith?
Prayer: Everlasting Father, thank You for the gift of Jesus. Let His birth remind me of Your love and desire to be near to me. May my heart be a home for You. Amen.
Christmas Day: A Weary World Rejoices
Scriptures: Matthew 11:28-30; Isaiah 40:29-31; Romans 15:13
“Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.” — Matthew 11:28
“May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace…” — Romans 15:13
Reflection:
On Christmas Day, we celebrate the joy that Jesus brings to a weary world. He is our Prince of Peace, our source of rest, and our everlasting joy. In a world often marked by struggle and pain, Jesus offers us a home in His love, a place where our hearts find rest. This Christmas, may we not only remember His birth but embrace His invitation to abide in Him. His presence is our true home, today and forever.
Meditation: Where do you feel weary? How can you find rest in Jesus and rejoice in His gift of peace today?
Prayer: Lord Jesus, on this Christmas Day, I celebrate You as my Prince of Peace. Refresh my weary heart and help me live in the joy of Your presence. Amen.
May this Advent season deepen your experience of God’s love, light, and invitation into your eternal home.
THE LINC COLLECTIVE 
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