Advent is a joyful season of preparation for spiritual renewal. Advent is a celebration for the first coming of Jesus and it is also a season preparing for the second coming of Jesus, in all His glory. It is a penitential season, as we repent of sin and prepare for spiritual conversion. Jesus Christ came into the world to reconcile us to Himself.

We know that Christ’s coming is nearer than ever before, as scripture appeals to us to stay awake, stay prepared, cleansing ourselves from all unrighteousness. This appeal is urgent for conversion as the coming of Jesus Christ is closer than we think.

Besides this, you know what time it is, how it is now the moment for you to wake from sleep. For salvation is nearer to us now than when we became believers; the night is far gone, the day is near. Let us then lay aside the works of darkness and put on the armour of light; let us live honourably as in the day, not in revelling and drunkenness, not in debauchery and licentiousness, not in quarrelling and jealousy. Instead, put on the Lord Jesus Christ, and make no provision for the flesh, to gratify its desires. (Romans 13:11-15 NewRSV).

Advent is a countdown until Christmas, but for the second coming of Jesus, we do not know the time of His return, except God the Father. Therefore, we must always be ready. There is an urgency to repent, to do penance and to proclaim the gospel.

We associate penitence with sorrow; however, advent is a season of joy. Our sins causes us sorrow and as we repent and do penance, God restores our sorrows into joy. Advent is also a season of hope, love and peace. We hope of the second coming of Jesus Christ, we receive the love He has expressed on the cross and we are filled with the peace of being reconciled with God and man.

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