Advent and Christmas quotes

Advent is the time that leads into the Christmas season. We use this time to prepare for the coming of Christ through his birth. The church year is a way to celebrate the life, death and resurrection of Jesus Christ.

“I believe we also light [Advent candles] as symbols of a world we imagine to be possible when Jesus comes to earth-a world where hope,peace,joy and love will reign.” Callie E. Swanlund, From Weary to Wholehearted.

It feels like peace in our world is impossible. Israel fighting Palestinians. Russia fighting Ukraine. I am fighting with myself on whether my country, the USA, is at war with Venezuela right now. I want to give my nation the benefit of doubt but I suspect that we want oil and rare earth minerals.

My church shared this song in a devotional email.

Let It Be In My Heart
by Liturgical Folk

REFRAIN
Your word, O Lord, isn’t hard to hear;
It’s hard to take to heart.
Your call is open; it’s clean and clear
To those who play their part.

VERSE 1
If you should send your Angel to pass
along your word,
Or should it be a quiet little bird,
Let it be, let it be in my heart
As it is in your will.

VERSE 2
Don’t want to be like Sarah, laughing
under breath,
Nor Gideon, who tested what you said.
Let it be, let it be in my heart
As it is in your will.

VERSE 3
Like simple Ananias, may I trust your plan,
Then answer with a brimming, “Here I
am.”
Let it be, let it be in my heart
As it is in your will.

VERSE 4
Now may I with Mary hear your call today,
And, though I am afraid, clearly say,
Let it be, let it be in my heart
As it is in your will.

My church did a skit of Joseph talking to a female friend about his decision to marry Mary while knowing that she is pregnant with God’s child. The Joseph character expressed a willingness to obey and make room for God to do His will. So, this song went really well into our church service.

Today is Christmas eve.

“Jesus came to earth in humility, which centers those who have too long been at the margins. What does it mean to focus on those who are left behind, powerless, suffering, or invisible? We may be called to enter spaces that are uncomfortable or unfamiliar. We might be invited to listen to voices that we have overlooked.” Humble and Holy: Devotions for Advent &Christmas 2025-2026 by Augsburg Fortress

This feels like a wonderful quote for me to ponder while I enjoy time with the family and await the celebration of the birth of Christ. Merry Christmas to my readers.

“King Herod was not prepared to accept a new king of the Jews. Is there a truth you do not wish to acknowledge? What truth could empower you and others?” Humble and Holy: Devotions for Advent & Christmas 2025-2026 by Augsburg Fortress