We celebrate as always, but sometimes with a longing for what’s next
By Dean Collins
I suppose we all have memories of Christmas traditions from our childhood. Not long ago I watched a show that portrayed a family making a colorful construction paper Christmas garland, and I suddenly remembered making these same garlands in elementary school. And of course, there were many spray-painted pine cone Christmas trees during those same years. I especially remember what seemed to be a very long wait for Christmas Day finally to arrive!
Waiting on God
I suspect that most of us have trouble waiting patiently for special days and events. As Peter wrote his second letter to the church, he reminded believers to remember the predictions of the prophets and the commandments of the Lord delivered by the apostles. One such prophecy had to do with the second advent of Jesus.
Peter reminded the church that God’s view of time is very different than our view of time, “that with the Lord one day is as a thousand years, and a thousand years as one day.” Peter added that the Lord is not slow in keeping his promises. I suppose we would say that’s true, but only in the context of the Lord’s view of time!
Longing for advent
As I get older I still enjoy all of the songs and Scriptures that help me remember and celebrate the gift of the Christ child. But more and more I long for the second advent of Jesus. Peter reminds us that the promise of Christ’s return means we will experience the world as God first intended for us to experience it: new heavens and a new earth in which righteousness dwells.
Where righteousness dwells there will be no wars, no sickness, no broken relationships, no hunger, no trauma, no conflict of any kind. In the fully restored earth, we will live in perfect peace and harmony with God and with each other. The second advent could only be possible because of that Holy night when Christ was born.
This year go ahead and light the Advent candles, read the Scriptures, sing the carols, and enjoy the celebration of Christ’s birth. And then read about the promised return of Christ and pray regularly for Christ not only to come again soon but to also prepare us now to live in such a way that those who scoff at the idea of the need for a Savior might be drawn to Christ through the love we show them each day.
Heavenly Father, we desire to celebrate the birth of our Savior this year by surrendering our lives to you more fully. Fill our hearts with expectation as we prepare for your second coming. Holy Spirit, transform us so that we might reflect your kindness in every interaction with those around us. Be born in us again this year. We long for your return. In Jesus’ name, amen.
Your time with God’s Word
2 Peter 3:1-3, 8-18 ESV
Photo by Shovan Datta at www.pexels.com.
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