2025 Advent Devotion: Day 12

Friday, December 12

Ruth 4:13-17; 2 Peter 3:11-18

The Advent season is a time of anticipation. Each candle we light on the Advent wreath and each carol we sing in worship reminds us of the wonder of Christ’s first coming in Bethlehem. The apostle Peter provides us with salient information related to Advent in 2 Peter 3:11-18. In this important passage of scripture, the apostle Peter exposes us to three important realities of Advent.

The first reality highlights the importance of answering an important question: “What kind of people ought we to be?” This question presses on our hearts as much today as it did in the early church. If everything in this world—our possessions, our reputations, our status—is passing away, then what truly matters? Advent reminds us to live not for what fades, but for what endures into eternity. In doing so, we are better able to prioritize what really matters as we trade each day we live for a day closer to our eternal resting place.

The second reality highlights the hope we have in looking forward to the “day of God.” This hope does not make us passive dreamers but rather active participants in God’s redemptive plan. By living holy lives, proclaiming the gospel, and embodying Christ’s love, we actually “speed its coming.” Advent is not just a countdown on a calendar, it is an invitation to partner with God in preparing the world for Christ’s return. And as we do so, we find peace in Christ that steadies us amid life’s storms. In a season often marked by busyness, stress, and even loneliness, Advent whispers to us that true peace is not found in circumstances but in the presence of our coming King.

The third reality highlights a call for spiritual growth—“to grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.” Advent is a season of reflection, of asking whether we are becoming more like Christ. Are we more patient, more loving, more forgiving than we were last year? Have we deepened our trust in God’s promises? Just as children eagerly grow in excitement as Christmas approaches, so we are invited to grow spiritually, longing for Christ more deeply each day. Our growth in grace is not simply personal enrichment—it is preparation for eternity.

In conclusion, Advent is far more than waiting for a holiday. It is a holy season of becoming the people God calls us to be. Peter reminds us that life is fleeting, but Christ’s promises are eternal. He helps us to put things in perspective! The hope of His return fills us with courage to endure, and the call to grow in grace anchors us in His truth. As we celebrate Christ’s birth in Bethlehem, let us also prepare our hearts for His glorious return. May we live holy and godly lives that shine with the peace, hope, and love of Christ in a world still longing for His light.


Marcus A. Roberts
School of Divinity Student