I was taking the service at my own church last Sunday, and of course it was advent themed. Like many churches we light an advent candle on each of the four Sundays, and we usually get one of the children to do the actual lighting – fun for them, but always a heart in mouth moment for those on the fabric committee! As they were being lit, I asked the children why we lit the candles. Unsurprisingly, one of them said “We’re counting down to Christmas.” And so we are. But that is not all that advent is. Advent is the particular season in the church’s year when we reflect on both the first coming of Christ and on His return, His second advent.
