Embedded in the heart of advent is the longing and anticipation of Jesus "coming to" us. As Philip H. Pfatteicher, respected liturgical historian and scholar, and former Professor of English at East Stroudsburg University in Pennsylvania, notes as he reflects on Advent, "Since the time of Bernard of Clairvaux (died 1153), Christians have spoken of the three comings of Christ: in the flesh in Bethlehem, in our hearts daily, and in the glory at the end of time."

Just as we lean into the understanding that it is "Christ within us" that is our hope and sustaining strength, similar to the rhythms of the Spirit "with us" and "in us", we reach for the drawing near of Jesus as well. He comes to us.

In the mystery of acknowledging the "thin places" in our faith journey and the "liminal spaces" of our "now and not yet" kingdom understanding, the Lord has been making us keenly aware of His desire to bring to us a fresh visitation of His presence and peace. At the risk of creating a "been there done that" cynicism, right across the country in our various local communities, prayer circles and prophetic listening, there is a palpable anticipation. Presence. Peace. Jesus with us.

As a movement we are leaning into our future in ways that we have not had to for a very long time. With the publication of the first installment of "Why Vineyard?", the inauguration of the Foundations Team, and our Metanoia Gatherings this fall which have culminated in our Round Table reflection and dialogue, we are more than postured with a sense of anticipation of the Holy Spirit speaking to us with clarity as to where our compass is set for the future of our movement. Trusting that the articulation of our direction, to follow the "Jesus Way" is actually shaping our decisions, use of resource, discipleship and implementation of vision, we must have continual encounters with Jesus. Present tense.

January is going to be chalk full as we are in the final stage of our communal discerning regarding our future direction theologically, ecclesiastically and pastorally. We believe that this Advent Season has a particular role to play at this juncture of our movement's history. With each candle lit, let your longing and anticipation increase – He is with us. He is coming. With each song sung, let your longing and anticipation increase – He is with us. He is coming. With each liturgy. Each homily. Each sermon. Each prayer. Let your longing and anticipation increase – He is with us. He is coming. With each exchange in community and relationships let your longing and anticipation increase – He is with us. He is coming.

Be at peace. He is with us.
Be at peace. He is coming to us.
To lead. To comfort. To heal. To sustain.

Let the kingdom come,
David and Anita