First Sunday of Advent |
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Scripture |
Mark 13:24-37 24“But in those days, after that suffering, 28“From the fig tree learn its lesson: as soon as its branch becomes tender and puts forth its leaves, you know that summer is near. 29 So also, when you see these things taking place, you know that he is near, at the very gates. 30 Truly I tell you, this generation will not pass away until all these things have taken place. 31 Heaven and earth will pass away, but my words will not pass away. 32“But about that day or hour no one knows, neither the angels in heaven, nor the Son, but only the Father. 33 Beware, keep alert; for you do not know when the time will come. 34 It is like a man going on a journey, when he leaves home and puts his slaves in charge, each with his work, and commands the doorkeeper to be on the watch. 35 Therefore, keep awake--for you do not know when the master of the house will come, in the evening, or at midnight , or at cockcrow, or at dawn, 36 or else he may find you asleep when he comes suddenly. 37 And what I say to you I say to all: Keep awake.”
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Devotional |
This week’s Gospel lectionary reading closes with Mark’s version of Jesus’ apocalyptic discourse. Chapter 13 opens with the disciples acting as tour guides of Jerusalem . They point out the impressive sights, especially the Temple which was constructed from huge massive stones. Looking at this massive stone structure, one sees a landmark that resembles permanence. But fast forward a few years, this structure plus the city was destroyed by the Romans. In the wake of these events, many people felt the absence of God. In the wake of the continuing economic situation, many people will feel a divine absence during Advent season. How many will forget about lights, decorations, and cards? The expensive gifts may be gone. For many there may be no Christmas in sight. For too long we have identified Christmas and God with consumerism and prosperity. The economic scarcity may feel like a sign of God’s judgment and absence. Like Isaiah, we wait for the moment “O that you would tear open the heavens and come down, so that the mountains would quake at your presence (Isaiah 64:1). Mark reminds us to “stay awake, keep alert.” The reminder came to me a couple of days ago, Joy and I were visiting with our granddaughter and three great-grandchildren who are visiting from California . Ten month old Bella was playing at the coffee table, holding on while walking around, reaching for her brother’s game. She was enjoying playing with the wrapper from her brother’s treat great-granny gave him. With nothing of material value, she was enjoying herself. The economic crisis taking place around her has no effect on her spirit. The fact that her dad works for a company that has lain off 40,000 + workers and his job will end in two months (fortunately he has another position already) does not diminish her spirit. Neither is she concerned that the stock owned by her great-grandparents in this same company has gone from $50+ to less than $4. The news this morning is that the government has bailed out Citi. God came 2000 years ago to bail out God’s people and we are assured that God will return again this Advent to bail us our again. I have attempted to capture Bella’s spirit for Advent. Take what ever is available, even an empty treat wrapper, and enjoy those around you. God has already blessed us as we wait for the Coming of Jesus.
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