As the calendar turns toward December and we enter the season of Advent, the Church is invited into a sacred rhythm—one marked by waiting, longing, and anticipation. Within the First Church of God movement, Advent holds deep meaning because it draws our hearts back to the foundations of our faith: the Lordship of Christ, the unity of God’s people, and the holiness to which we are called.
Advent is not merely a countdown to Christmas day. It is a time of spiritual preparation—a journey that invites us to revisit the promises of God, to remember the humility of Christ’s first coming, and to renew our hope in His return.
Advent Begins With Hope
The first candle of Advent symbolizes hope—a kind of hope that reaches deeper than optimism or wishful thinking. It is the confident expectation that God keeps His promises.
As people of the Church of God, we proclaim that Christ is the Lord of our lives and the Lord of the Church. Advent gives us space to remember that His arrival was not random, but a fulfillment of centuries of prophecy. Jesus entered a world filled with political turmoil, division, and uncertainty—but His light broke through the darkness.
Today, in a world that often feels equally troubled, Advent reminds us that our hope is anchored in Christ alone. No matter what surrounds us—uncertainty, transition, or personal trials—God is still writing His story.
A Call to Holiness and Preparation
The Church of God has always emphasized holiness of heart and life—not as legalism, but as a response of love and surrender to Christ. Advent invites us to slow down and reflect:
- Where is God calling me to deeper obedience?
- What distractions need to be stripped away so I can see Jesus more clearly?
- How is the Holy Spirit inviting me to be transformed this season?
Just as Israel waited for the Messiah, we wait not only for Christmas morning but for Christ to reign fully in us. Holiness is not about perfectionism—it’s about being ready, being watchful, and being fully yielded to the One who came and the One who is coming again.
Christ Came to Unite Us as One People
One of the core beliefs of the Church of God is the unity of all believers. We do not belong to Christ alone; we belong to one another. Advent reminds us that Jesus came to draw all people to Himself—to restore the broken, reconcile the estranged, and break down dividing walls.
The angels declared, “Peace on earth, goodwill toward men.”
Not peace just for one nation.
Not hope just for one group.
But peace and goodwill for all humanity.
During Advent, we reflect on what it means to be part of God’s family—each of us called, redeemed, and made one through Christ. The season invites us to be peacemakers, bridge-builders, and lights in our community.
Anticipating His Return
The First Church of God holds tightly to the truth that Jesus Christ will return. Advent is not only a remembrance of His first coming in Bethlehem—it is a renewed anticipation of His second coming when He will make all things new.
Advent asks us to look forward with expectancy:
- Christ will return.
- Justice will be restored.
- Grief will be swallowed up in victory.
- The Kingdom of God will fully reign.
Our waiting is not passive—it is active, joyful, and full of purpose.
Living Advent Every Day
As we journey through the Advent season together, may we:
- Hope with confidence, knowing Christ keeps His word.
- Pursue holiness, letting the Spirit prepare our hearts.
- Seek unity, loving one another deeply.
- Live expectantly, watching for Christ’s return and participating in His mission.
Advent is a gift. It realigns our hearts, renews our purpose, and reminds us that the Savior who came is the Savior who still walks with us—and the Savior who will come again.
May our congregation, our families, and our community feel the warmth of Christ’s presence as we celebrate this season of holy anticipation.
Come, Lord Jesus.
Fountain Park First Church of God 
Leave a comment