What is Advent?

Hi. First, let me welcome you to OnMission - we are so thankful that you are with us, following this blog and joining with us as we seek to truly know God. My name is Howard Edwards. I am a pastor at OnMission, and, at least initially I will be the main contributor to this blog (… BUT … if you or someone you know might want to help research or contribute directly to this blog, please feel free to contact me by email)

You will often hear us say that questions are wonderful - and we invite your questions. If you want, send us an email or message - we’d love to hear what’s on your mind. Why?

Because as we wrestle with our questions we grow … we grow in the knowledge of God and we grow in His Love.

Traditionally, today is new year's day in the Church. It’s the beginning of a season called Advent. So an obvious question is, what is Advent?

For centuries the Church has followed an annual cycle of worship, prayer and daily Bible readings that begin in Advent. This cycle is meant to focus our hearts and minds on every different aspect of Jesus’ teachings and on our need for Him. You might think of this cycle as a curriculum that ensures all lessons, readings and teachings are addressed and nothing is missed.

Ok, but what is the essence of Advent? The best image I can give you is this.

Have you ever laid on the ground, on a crisp clear night gazing up into a magnificent starry sky? And as you fix your eyes on the stars, you begin to ponder those big questions of life. Confronted by the vastness of the universe, you just know that you know there is something more than what we can engage with our five senses. That’s how I imagine Advent.

We stand among God’s creation; we stand before God! We sense His majestic vastness. We are confronted by Jesus and all that He said and did - we just know there is something more … so we ask questions … and we hear God’s Word given to us in the Bible. The moment is humbling yet exhilarating - this is what our Loving God has done for us. We are Loved that much. It’s stunning. It’s beautiful. It’s perfect Love.

This Advent season OnMission is reflecting on Who God is and what being His people looks like in this chaotic world. We are asking, what is Jesus’ impact on the life of those who receive and follow Him?

We’re grateful that you're with us.

Welcome to OnMission. Welcome to Advent.