|
Like an enthralling movie trailer, Advent begins
with the end. We read of distress among nations,
roaring waves and people who live in fear. But
we hear that when all this happens, we should not be afraid, but instead raise our heads, for redemption is coming. Christ will return to restore all things—to bring to a close this age of strife and trouble.
Remember that as we move through Advent, as we “flashback” to Christ’s first coming, it might be tempting to focus on the angels, the donkey and the loving Holy Family—not to mention cookies, presents and carols. We would prefer to ignore the innkeeper’s lack of hospitality, Herod’s brutality, the shadow of the Cross hanging over the manger—never mind the
injustices and challenges of today’s world.
But we needn’t fear, for we know the ending. God loves us beyond our sins, beyond our imagining, beyond even time.
Holy God, you are the Lord of time. All our life is in your hand. Lead and teach us this Advent, we pray in Jesus’ name.
The Rev. Micah T. J. Jackson, PhD
Bishop John Hines Assistant Professor of Preaching Dean of Community Life
Seminary of the Southwest
|
 |
