Today I read a passage from the psalms -
Psalm 24:7 Open up, ancient gates!
Open up, ancient doors,
and let the King of glory enter.
Another paraphrase says, “Wake up, you sleepy-headed people!” As I stared at the page today God began to ask me what areas of my life were those ancient gates, those ancient doors that I hadn’t opened to Him in awhile. In one way it was a rhetorical question, because God already knew the answer. But on the other hand, it was a challenge to my heart. I have to give the King of Glory full access to my past, present and future. When I allow Him to work in every area, I’ll have more reasons to be thankful this Christmas for the grace, mercy and hope that exists because of Christ’s birth.
The passage today was one portion of my reading for Advent, which began this past Sunday. For many of us who either didn’t grow up in church or had a church experience that wasn’t liturgical, Advent is a Christian season that we know little about—just enough to tie it to Christmas and that wreath with candles we sometimes see. Advent can be a great spiritual practice, though—it is a time to prayerfully and intentionally prepare your heart and mind for the true celebration of Christmas, that the Christ child was born.
Advent has existed for quite some time, and it really has a beautiful rhythm to enter into. Various calendars show particular readings for reflection, anticipation, and contemplation on the hope that Christmas represents. If you’re interested in a suggested devotional path for the holiday, please e-mail me at KathyC@MarsHillFamily.com and I’ll be glad to send it out. Let’s prepare our hearts together to celebrate Christmas at its fullest.
