Advent is a time of waiting and preparation for the celebration of the birth of Jesus. The word “advent” comes from the Latin word “adventus” which means “arrival.” So we are waiting for the arrival of Jesus. And for over two thousand years, He’s never stood us up. He always comes.

Did you know that we, in modern times, approach the holiday season a little differently than they did hundreds of years ago? We jump into a frenzy of activity right after Thanksgiving, if not before, spending, decorating, baking, going to programs and concerts, gathering with family and friends. By the time Christmas comes, we’re tuckered out and it’s almost a relief to have a few days of quiet recovery before the new year starts.

In days of old, that was switched. Advent was a quiet time of prayerful contemplation, spiritual preparation, and fasting. It wasn’t until Christmas Day that the celebration part actually kicked off, which then lasted 12 glorious days, full of feasting and gift-giving.

“The Twelve Days of Christmas” may be the most annoying holiday song, but the idea has roots in the early church. In 567, the Council of Tours “proclaimed the twelve days of Christmas as a sacred and festive season, and established the duty of Advent fasting in preparation for the feast.”

Would you do something a bit counter-cultural with me? Would you sit quietly for a few minutes every day leading up to Christmas? Don’t be afraid of the silence, and don’t worry about all the things on your to-do list. Let’s learn to wait well, so when Jesus arrives we can celebrate with hearts fully prepared.