A Second Advent
“When the Son of Man returns … it will be business as usual. …'" Luke 17:26; 30 (NLT)
When you look back on the Biblical record of the first Advent, it’s shocking that so few were ready for His coming. With the stories of the Shepherds having heard the angel’s proclamation and seeing Jesus in the manger, the wise men’s visit to Jerusalem that stirred the entire city and Herod’s murderous edict to kill all the male babies two years old and younger, you would think that at least the religious rulers would have been prepared for Christ’s coming!
Fast forward thirty years and John the Baptist becomes “… a voice shouting in the wilderness, Prepare the way for the LORD’S coming!” Luke 3:4 (NLT) John’s message was so strong that many wondered if he might be the Messiah. (Vs. 15) But John replied that “… someone is coming soon who is greater than I am – so much greater that I’m not even worthy to be His slave and untie the straps of His sandals.” Mark 1:7 (NLT) Luke tells us that “John used many such warnings as he announced the Good News to the people" Luke 3:18 (NLT)
Just as God sought to prepare His people for the first Advent there is another Advent coming! But much like the first, Jesus said, “… it will be business as usual.” Luke 17:30a (NLT) That phrase convicts me with how easy it is to become so distracted by the everyday routines and demands of life that I miss the anticipation of His coming! How would you live life differently if you knew this was the day Jesus would come again? With all that is happening in our world today, I’m looking with greater anticipation for His return!
Before you go about your business for the day, take some time to prepare your heart for Christ’s second Advent. Live in the anticipation that the One who came at Bethlehem will return! We can prepare the way for His coming by sharing the Good News with others. Reach out to a friend and invite them to join you at one of our 15 Christmas Eve Services. Visit wc.org for locations and service times in person and online.