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Advent means Christ came once; Christ will come again!
From Mark 13:24-37 "But in those days, after that suffering, the sun will be darkened, and the moon will not give its light, and the stars will be falling from heaven, and the powers in the heavens will be shaken. Then they will see "the Son of Man coming in clouds' with great power and glory. Then he will send out the angels, and gather his elect from the four winds, from the ends of the earth to the ends of heaven. "From the fig tree learn its lesson: as soon as its branch becomes tender and puts forth its leaves, you know that summer is near. So also, when you see these things taking place, you know that he is near, at the very gates. Truly I tell you, this generation will not pass away until all these things have taken place. Heaven and earth will pass away, but my words will not pass away. "But about that day or hour no one knows, neither the angels in heaven, nor the Son, but only the Father. Beware, keep alert; for you do not know when the time will come. It is like a man going on a journey, when he leaves home and puts his slaves in charge, each with his work, and commands the doorkeeper to be on the watch. Therefore, keep awake—for you do not know when the master of the house will come, in the evening, or at midnight, or at cockcrow, or at dawn, or else he may find you asleep when he comes suddenly. And what I say to you I say to all: Keep awake."
Every year I wonder who or what will be first in placing the subtle reminder that the Christmas holidays are coming. For many years it was the old department store Foley's, who would place in mid to late August, their Christmas china on display. A quiet, subtle reminder that yes, the holiday season would soon be here. Dishes, cups, saucers, platters, with poinsettia designs, red and green and gold on beautiful white china. Those who walked by knew what they were up to. Then by late September, early October, and yes, it gets earlier each year, more and more Christmas displays. The purists cry stop! The nostalgic cry more!
Advent begins this Sunday. The scriptures are those telling us to be watchful, and hopeful. The first coming of Jesus was through His birth; the second shall be His return in glory. This week's passage says it will be a welcomed return for it will follow much suffering. In fact, the passage says that this advent of Christ's second return comes with full effects too; a darkened sun, a moon without light, stars falling from heaven, and even "the powers in the heavens will be shaken." For many it will be a frightening experience. The "'Son of Man coming in the clouds' with great power and glory." It will be a time of gathering those who believed in Him together. The signs, Jesus says, are subtle, but telling; be aware, be ready, and do not be afraid.
This passage comes at a time when many are expecting loved ones for the Thanksgiving holiday. The question many ask or wonder, "When will you get here?" In our case, we're expecting all four of our children and their families. It will be a time with a full household, great food, and a great time seeing and being with those who live far from us. We're expectant of these things, but we have lots to do. We still have to brave the crowds at the grocery store, buy all the ingredients to all things that will be roasted, baked, and prepared. All done with great hope and joy; the day soon comes. Pity to those who just wait and do not prepare. Even those who do not prepare anything, must call and make reservations at the place where they might eat. All must prepare. All must be ready. And yes, it is the same with what Jesus said about His return. We celebrate the joy of the birth, with all its trimmings and trappings; but we should have in our hearts and minds, that Christ will come again.
Keep awake!
PRAYER: Lord, for those waiting loved ones, we pray Your protection and blessings. Guide safely to homes those traveling today and in the days ahead. May Your Spirit be present at every home and at every table. For those who do not have homes or tables, keep us mindful and loving. For those sick who can not be with us, bring comfort and healing. For those awaiting an empty spot at a table for the first time ever, bring Your peace. But in every heart, mind, and spirit, may we know You love enough to come back for us. Help us to be ready. In Christ Jesus we pray, amen.
Have a great and blessed day in the Lord!
Eradio Valverde
