Somewhere around the 4th century, it was common practice in churches to have a season where a more focused concentration on the birth of Christ and the return of Christ took place. Advent is that season.

Advent comes from the Latin word “arrival” or “coming” and begins on the fourth Sunday before Christmas Eve.

At its root, the season of Advent in the church looks backward, rehearsing God’s promise of the birth of a Savior. But we also look forward, waiting for the promised second Advent when Christ returns to judge the world, bring justice, and make all things new.

One of the best parts of Advent is its reminder that we have only one hope—Jesus. He has come, and He will return.