Sandra McCracken on the Importance of the Advent Tradition

What do churches you have been a part of do well at Christmas, and what could be richer, more congregationally sensitive, and have more Biblical imagination?

I love the Advent tradition where churches spend time in quiet, spacious expectation leading up to Christmas. Without wanting to be too rigid about the idea of waiting to sing carols until Christmas Day, I have found that it can be an effective way to prepare for the celebration of Christmas.

A slow build-up to Christmas goes hand and hand with an active pursuit of justice and generosity.

A slow build-up to Christmas goes hand and hand with an active pursuit of justice and generosity. I’ve seen church communities do this well by participating in giving campaigns during the holiday season. It’s a countercultural practice that helps us to align with the humble, triumphant message of Jesus’ arrival into this world as a baby.