This season on the Next Steps Podcast, we’re entering into Advent together. We will explore what Advent is, why it matters, and how to celebrate it. We’ll also hear from worship leaders as they guide us through the themes of hope, peace, joy, and love.

In this episode, Christian Eggers talks with worship leaders Hannah Busse and Trevor Kleinmeyer about Advent’s theme of love and the practice of beholding and adoring. They reflect on why slowing down to adore can be difficult, how the story of Jesus’ birth invites us into deeper wonder, and how worship and the arts help shape this practice.

Reflection Practice

Take a minute to sit in silence, slow your mind, and breathe deeply. Invite God into this moment with you.

Start by simply thinking about God. Consider who he is. Consider his love for you.
Now spend a few minutes beholding God's goodness in your life. Recall some of the things he's created, the people he's put in your life, and the ways you've experienced his love and presence.
Take a moment to simply reflect on the fact that God loves you and wants to spend time with you. What would it look like to embrace that truth this week?

Resources

The Knowledge of the Holy | A.W. Tozer
31 Days of Praise: Enjoying God Anew | Ruth Myers & Warren Myers
Beloved | Francis Chan
Spoken For: Embracing Who You Are and Whose You Are | Robin Jones Gunn & Alyssa Joy Bethke
Advent Resources
Heaven and Nature Sing series | Blackhawk Church
Christmas at Blackhawk

Have questions or topics you'd like us to explore in future episodes? We'd love to hear from you! Reach out to us at podcast@blackhawkchurch.org.