We know that the whole creation has been groaning as in the pains of childbirth right up to the present time. Not only so, but we ourselves, who have the firstfruits of the Spirit, groan inwardly as we wait eagerly for our adoption as sons, the redemption of our bodies. For in this hope we were saved. But hope that is seen is no hope at all. Who hopes for what he already has? But if we hope for what we do not yet have, we wait for it patiently.
(Romans 8:22-25)
(Although I wasn't raised in a traditional, liturgical church, I discovered Advent as an adult. I have found this ancient seasonal observance to be very useful in keeping a proper perspective about Christmas and what it's really all about. For the four Sundays leading up to Christmas I'll be sharing my thoughts about the four aspects of Advent: Hope, Peace, Joy and Love.)
HOPE
Just as the ancient Israelites waited with hope for the arrival of the Messiah, we too, wait in eager anticipation of His second arrival. This is the hope that sustains us through the dark and stormy passages of our lives here on earth. When all around us seems to be spinning out of control, we are reminded that one day soon, the Lord will appear in the skies and, with the blast of the trumpet, call us home to be with Him in eternity.
With all that is going on in the world today, it is easy to lose hope. It seems as though everything that we thought we could depend on has been shaken to its very foundation. Our government has let us down. Many of our homes have lost much of their value, draining our resources and altering our financial security. Jobs seem to evaporate at a moment's notice. Even close friends and family members can turn on us without warning. It seems that the only stable, consistent thing that we have left is our relationship with Jesus Christ. Thank God that He never changes! (Hebrews 13:8)
Paul wrote in 1 Corinthians 15:19, “If only for this life we have hope in Christ, we are to be pitied more than all men.” Indeed, the one thing that truly separates orthodox Christian doctrine from the doctrine of all other religions and cults is the assurance of an eternal life in Paradise with our Savior, Jesus Christ.
As you prepare for the celebration of Christmas, stop to reflect on the hope you have in Christ. Every time you see a Christmas tree, or sing a Christmas carol, or wrap a present, remember that the best is yet to come.
Prayer:
God of Hope, we thank you for the gift of Your Son Jesus, who was willing to step down from His glorious throne and become like one of us, so that we could one day stand before His throne. Thank you for giving us the hope of our salvation, so that we can overcome the adversities of this world and live in expectant anticipation of the day when we will be with you for all eternity. Amen.Have a blessed week!
Pastor David
