11 And do this, understanding the present time: The hour has already come for you to wake up from your slumber, because our salvation is nearer now than when we first believed. 12 The night is nearly over; the day is almost here. So let us put aside the deeds of darkness and put on the armor of light. (Romans 13:11-12)
It is amazing how easily we can get lulled to sleep at times. And if you think it is easy for us, imagine the people of God trying to stay awake through four hundred years of God's silence. I guess that's why the season of Advent is so significant, because it asks us to stay awake and to wait in eager expectation, anticipating Christ's return at any moment. It is an actively passive waiting, if that's possible. We cannot control how, or when, or where He will come, so, in that sense, it must be passive. We can, however, control how we will wait. Therefore, it must also always be active. We must stay on our toes, or on our tiptoes one might say. We must be on the edge of our seats, and not settled back into the comfort and ease of our La-Z-Boy. We must stay ready, both watching and waiting. That is the kind of wakefulness that Advent calls for. We must keep our spiritual wits about us. We must be careful to do the things that keep our souls most awake and alert, whatever those things may be. Because, ultimately, Christ will come. And when he does, will he find us ready? Let us pay careful attention therefore, during this time and this season, for the many ways in which he comes. He will, in fact, come to us today. And, if we are paying careful attention, maybe we will see him, and hear him, when he does. One can only hope.
If you are interested in following the church calendar on this blog, you can start Here and work your way forward. The first theme of the Advent season on here is Attention.
Also, if you are ever interested in leaving a comment, please do. I would love to hear how God is working within you.
Grace and Peace,
Jim
Saturday, November 30, 2013
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