The Christian year begins with Advent, a short preparatory, but also an exciting time for the greatest event in history-the coming of Christ. As the angels rejoice both heaven and earth are united in the incarnation of the Son of God. In the words of the Johannine Gospel, "God so loved the world that he gave his only begotten Son, that who ever believes in him, shall not perish but have everlasting life" (3.16).
This book, the first in a series of daily meditations, covers the Christian year from Advent Sunday until the beginning of Lent, which has its own book, Living Lent.
By keeping Advent in the right spirit and not allowing ourselves to be dominated by the tyranny of the commercial Christmas, we commence the Christian year in a healthy way that will enable the committed Christian to keep the rest of the year in a Christ-like spirit.