I’ve been getting into the mood of advent; the anticipation, expectation, and preparation, but I’m not yet ready for Christmas.  I’m especially not ready for big Christmas trees, pop singers singing the latest and greatest mix of Christmas songs, and gifts everywhere.  I feel a bit like a grinch at times.  Can’t we dial back the Christmas cheer and spend some more time in reflection on what this season really means?

I am less excited by the little baby born in a manger in Bethlehem than I am by the thought of that little baby’s life and teaching and eventual return.  Advent means the coming of a notable person, thing, or event.  I would much rather celebrate that Christ has come, Christ has risen, and that Christ will come again than celebrate a fat man in a red suit.