Advent is a time of preparation, a time of penance, and a time of waiting. As we make ready for CHRIST'S coming, we prepare our homes with the symbols of Christmas, and we prepare our hearts by opening them in GOD'S promise and by showing our repentance. Then, in awesome anticipation, we wait, focusing our homes and hearts on GOD'S greatest gift to the world---HIS SON, born as a tiny babe in a humble manger in Bethlehem. "For to us a child is born, to us a SON is given, and the government will be on HIS shoulders. And HE will be called WONDERFUL COUNSELOR, MIGHTY GOD, EVERLASTING FATHER, PRINCE OF PEACE." (Isaiah 9:6)