In the Christian tradition, Advent is a season of waiting. In bondage, in exile, and in an occupied land, God’s people waited longingly for the promised rescuer. And then, the Word became flesh and dwelt among us in the person of Jesus. Now, the church waits, again.

We yearn for healing. We long for restoration. We stretch out our hands as we wait.

Waiting in the darkness of the season—literal and figurative—is an acknowledgment of our finitude, as well as our belovedness. We do not deny the heavy darkness that surrounds us, but we wait with expectancy, knowing that we are seen.

Art has been both guide and companion for me in my Advent waiting. Art helps me pay attention to the things I would overlook and the things I’ve forgotten. I hope it can do the same for you.

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