Belmont University Advent GuideSample

1 O sing to the Lord a new song;
sing to the Lord, all the earth.
2 Sing to the Lord, bless his name;
tell of his salvation from day to day.
3 Declare his glory among the nations,
his marvelous works among all the peoples. (Psalm 96.1–3)

As a child, and still as an adult, the season of Advent is by far one of my favorite seasons. As a child it was in great anticipation of presents, Christmas songs, and family. As I have grown older I still anticipate those things, but it also causes me to consider how the end of the year marks the beginning of something great. Each year I am reminded of the blessings that God has bestowed on me and the promise of new blessings that a new year brings.

While all of us are considering the last few days of the year, there is also the hope and excitement of a new year. The time of Advent is one of great preparation and peace, in anticipation of the birth of Christ. However, while there is a great deal of preparation during the time of Advent, we should be thoughtful of God on a daily basis.

While the birth of Christ is an extraordinary celebration, we must remember that celebration every day after. Each day that God gives us is a blessing, and He is to be praised on a daily basis for the gift He gives us. So as a reminder, may the praise of the Lord always be on our lips not only during Advent but all throughout the year.

Mary Clark
Director, Bridges to Belmont and Office of Multicultural Learning