During Advent we prepare to celebrate the birth of Jesus and look for signs of him breaking into our lives. A primary scriptural message of Advent is, "Keep awake" (Mark 13:35, 37). I have not always kept awake; but, by the grace of God, I have glimpsed Jesus' advent.
This year our children and youth have lighted our Advent candles during worship. One particular Sunday the children approached this with obvious joy. They took their places well before the service and watched closely for the sign that the time had come for their parts of the liturgy. When the time came they leapt to the lectern to read their lines and the light of the world shone brightly in the pleasure they found in that opportunity to lead worship.
As I returned to church one afternoon someone I did not know was carrying something into the building. I offered to help and discovered that she had taken an angel from our angel tree and was delivering the presents she had purchased. She does not belong to our congregation and does not participate in a faith community. She had noticed our Giving Tree and taken an ornament while attending an event held in our building. She said that purchasing the requested item had reminded her of the meaning of the season. I handed her our schedule of Advent and Christmas services and invited her to return. She said she was not interested in "organized religion" but I feel confident that Jesus winked in the sparkle in her eyes.
Another day I spoke with a person who once belonged to our congregation and whose children participated in many of our ministries. With downcast eyes she told me the stories of her departure from our congregation and two others. The tales she told were specific to her, but uncomfortably familiar. When she said that she believes in God but doesn't trust the church, the wounded healer surrounded us. We see each other often, so the door remains open for further conversation. She also received word about our upcoming services, especially ones where she could blend into the crowd easily. The one who comes calls her. I hope she discerns his voice and answers soon.
The next day I overheard a conversation between two people comparing busy schedules. One noted how hard he had worked to keep a particular evening open for Christmas caroling. When he said it would not be Christmas unless he went caroling, the one who comes appeared.
Too often we think God breaks into our lives only in dramatic, earth-shaking moments. More often the advent takes place quietly, tenderly. The one who comes speaks in unexpected places and treads on ground we do not deem holy. Perhaps that is why Mark's Jesus advises, "Keep awake." We never know where and when the coming one will find us. That, friends, is good news. Look around and keep awake!
Advent Blessings,
LP
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