"See, I am coming soon; my reward is
with me, to repay according to everyone’s work. I am the Alpha and the Omega,
the first and the last, the beginning and the end.”
Revelation
22:12-13
Moving
through life in a state of sleepiness is a terrible way to live. When we’re
fatigued, many of our basic survival instincts are greatly affected and
impaired. Sleepiness can betray our bodies by disturbing our ability to make
proper decisions or react properly. Sleep deprivation is especially dangerous
on the highway; the monotony and motion of even short-distance driving can lull
many to a dangerous drowsiness or even a deadly sleep.
If it is
necessary for us to be prepared for car rides, how much more necessary is it
for us to prepare for the Second Coming of Jesus Christ? The Advent season in
its liturgical observance is devoted to celebrating the coming of our God at
the end of history. Advent also reminds us of the anticipation of Jesus, the
Messiah, the promised Savior of the children of God born as the Babe of Bethlehem.
For believers, we’re called to continual preparation and repentance for the day
when we’ll meet our Lord. For the unbeliever, these words are a call to
repentance, for we will indeed come face to face with our Lord.
As we prepare
to celebrate our Lord’s First Coming through our Advent season; let’s focus our
eyes on Christ. Don’t let the monotony and motion of your lives lull you asleep
at the wheel. Be ready and on guard against the wiles of our enemies and the
worries of this world. At his First Coming Jesus put us right with God. At his Second Coming, all
that Christ accomplished at his First Coming will reach its final conclusion.
Both Advents together make our salvation complete and sure!
Heavenly Father, Alpha and Omega, keep
our eyes focused on the coming of Christ. Awaken us to your merciful love and
hope today and for all of eternity. Amen.
The Rev.
David Young is pastor of Gloria Dei Lutheran Church, Blue Bell and Grace
Lutheran Church, Warminster. He is a member of the Board of Directors of Liberty
Lutheran Services.
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