“Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ! In his great mercy he has given us new birth into a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead.” (1 Peter 1:3)

The five candles that sit up on the stage at church. The chocolate calendars. A four-part Bible study.

However you celebrate the season of Advent, one thing remains the same: Jesus.

Jesus is the spirit of celebration. Not only is the season of Advent a celebration of His birth, but it is also the marking of hope.

Christians set aside a day of the year to celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ. This time of year is about more than just a party for a birthday – the season of Advent brings us hope for a new year and hope for a better relationship with God.

We were broken and separated from God because of our sins, but our hope is found in Jesus. His birth and entrance into this world gave us hope to build, rebuild and continue building a relationship with God. Jesus is the bridge of that relationship.

So, while you enjoy a daily chocolate from your Advent calendar or watch the dancing lights of the candles up on stage during church services, take a moment to look at the hope that is marked by this season and remember what this time of year is truly all about.

Grand Canyon University is an interdenominational university that incorporates our Christian worldview into everything we do. To learn more about spiritual life at GCU or how we celebrate the Christmas season, contact us today for more information.