Introduction

I think there is a tendency sometimes to define Advent in a negative way, by what it is not, as in “not Christmas.” It is easily skipped over and merged with Christmas, but it is a distinctive season of its own. Advent is a time to reflect on both the past and the future. During Advent we remember the Old Testament prophecies that point to Jesus’ birth, and the promise of Jesus’ future coming. We think about Mary, Joseph, Elizabeth, Zechariah, John the Baptist, and the angel Gabriel. Advent means longing for Jesus, for his judgment/justice, mercy, and peace.

Through this project I wanted to create a way for me and other people to not only better understand Advent intellectually but to experience it, to have a sense of what Advent feels like. I hope that you read the devotionals each day, you will take the time to listen to each song and that you will have a sense of what Advent feels like. Many of these songs are ancient and have been sung and listened to by countless Christians over the centuries. I love how they sound in both traditional and contemporary versions.

I am immensely grateful to Diana, Eddie, Laura and Tim for their thoughtful and prayerful contributions. I hope that you find them as inspirational as I have. May Christ’s peace be with you this Advent, and may you grow closer to God with each passing day.

by Erica Andersen

Contributors

• Diana Austin

• The Rev. Deacon Erica Andersen

• Tim Andersen

• Eddie Black

• Laura Bray