Someone said, “If Christmas is about the destination, Advent is about the journey.” In life I have learned the hard way that it is important to be fully engaged in the journey.
A number of years ago I was part of a group of people traveling to Israel. What a journey! I remember conversations I had with my friend John leading up to the trip. John was amazing. He spent an entire year planning for the trip. He made lists and purchased many important items for almost any contingency. John told me about his first-aid kit and many other critical articles he was collecting. About a week before we flew I remember John asking if I had my umbrella. “Hmm… that might be a good idea!” Just a few days before we left John asked, “How’s your suitcase?” Oops! I discovered I needed to purchase a new suitcase for the trip. Thanks again John! I realize how different John and I are – I was fixated on the event and he was focused on the journey. A difference of perspective!
In Advent, I am reminded that the Christian life is a journey and that the trip we are on is crucial to our formation as Christ-followers. To arrive at Bethlehem and encounter the incarnated Christ requires that we take the journey seriously. The Shepherds hurried to Bethlehem and the Magi followed a star but both considered the journey – preparing for contingencies and counting the cost as they traveled to find the infant Christ. Luke records, “Let’s go to Bethlehem and see this thing that has happened, which the Lord has told us about.” (Luke 2:15)
If you are like me you have a tendency to want to skip the preparations and rush head-long to the destination. I hope this Advent Season you and I can slow down and reflect on the ways in which Christ wants to shape us to be like Him as we move toward Christmas day.
On behalf of the CABC President, Mr. Al McIsaac, the Council and the CABC Staff, we extend to you and your family a very Merry Christmas! Thank you for your faithful support of our shared ministries and your partnership in the Gospel as we continue to serve the Lord Jesus Christ together.
Dr. Peter Reid, CABC Executive Minister
