This morning I was taking a whole school assembly (primary) on the theme of Advent and exploring this idea of waiting.
When we think about waiting, in relation to Advent, I expect that most people, if they think anything at all, think about it as a time of waiting and preparation for Christmas. Most of the children had no difficulty at all identifying an Advent Calendar - and even several of the staff put up their hands to say that they had one on the go.
Whilst it can be quite hard waiting for Christmas - at least we know how long we have to wait.
It's a bit like the new style bus shelters with the little screens that inform you of how long it is until the next bus comes. It might be 15 minutes away, but at least you know that and that makes the waiting a little easier. Having worked in Kenya and Pakistan I have spent many times waiting beside roads for lifts that may or may not turn up, and you certainly have no idea how long you are going to have to wait.
But Advent is also about this second kind of waiting - waiting for something when you don't know how long you are going to have to wait. Because Advent is not primarily about waiting for Christmas. It is about remembering that the one who came as a baby over 2000 years ago has promised that he will come back again. During his time on earth, Jesus told his friends and disciples that although no one knows when that will be we are to make sure that we are ready.
Advent is so much more than simply eating a chocolate a day as you look forward to opening presents - rather it is a time of sober reflection and preparation as we remember Jesus' challenge to be ready for his second coming.
