"Every generous act of giving, with every perfect gift, is from above, coming down from the Father of lights, with whom there is no variation or shadow due to change."
- James 1:17
Advent Day 4
November 30, 2022
The Advent Calendar
The Advent calendar is rooted in a tradition that spans centuries of church history. Emerging from a Protestant Christian context, Advent calendars carry an underlying spiritual message of anticipation and hope. By helping us remember and reflect on the coming of Jesus Christ, Advent calendars can be a valuable aid for Christian families.
Advent calendars now come in many forms, but the tradition began simply enough when German families in the mid-nineteenth century started counting the days until Christmas by tallying chalk marks on a door or wall. Some families made homemade Advent calendars to accompany their countdown. There are many unique styles of Advent calendars. Some are overtly Christian while others play to the more secularized aspects of the holiday season.
For families who want to remain Christ-focused during Advent, a nativity-themed calendar is an excellent choice. Other calendars highlight Bible stories that tell of God’s people leading up to Jesus. The spiritual focus of these Advent calendars is built into the countdown in the form of brief devotionals that may be used for personal reflection.
Steward Elias "Pete" Prioleau III
Senior Steward Board
Mighty Men of Metropolitan
Prayer: Lord, fill us up with love, hope reverence, and celebration as we approach this Advent season. Amen.
Advent 2022
We invite you to join us during the Advent season as we reflect on the virtues of Hope, Joy, Peace, and Love; as we anticipate Christ's birth; and prepare our hearts to receive him.
Each day a new reflection with a scripture and prayer will be posted on the Metropolitan AME Church website and social media to encourage you as we prepare.
Read along with us each day or download the book to read and reflect along with us offline.