One of the ways we unite our story with God's story is through rehearsing redemptive history through the Christian Year. The Christian Year begins with Advent & Christmastide in December, a season marked by waiting and longing for Christ to come, culminating in the celebration of the Savior's arrival. Next, Lent, Holy Week, and Eastertide lead us to reflect on and repent for our sin, which prepares our hearts to receive the wondrous mystery of the Cross and to celebrate Christ's victory over death through his resurrection. And finally, the remainder of the calendar year is spent in Ordinary Time. In Ordinary Time, we remember Christ's ministry during his life on earth as we encounter the power of God the Father and the Holy Spirit in our everyday lives.
The Christian Year is an ancient practice that has helped the people of God behold the full gospel story within a cyclical, annual rhythm. This calendar is a tool — it helps us embrace seasons of feasting and fasting, rehearse lament, rejoice in celebration, and behold Christ's birth, death, and resurrection.
