Because our message of the gospel came to you not in word only, But also in power and in the Holy Spirit and with full conviction; Just as you know what kind of persons we proved to be among you for your sake.
I Thessalonians 1: 5
Advent is a time of expectations – great expectations – and perhaps this year more than ever before. We are expecting an end to the pandemic, a vaccine to save lives, a return to a strong economy, an end to racism and violence. Over the past months, there have been many promises made in words that have elevated these expectations in our hearts. While we remain hopeful, we know from experience that these kinds of expectations are rarely met – and we will mostly be let down by those who make such promises.
Advent is a time of expectations – great expectations: a time when we remember the promises of God to break the bounds of heaven – to bring light into the world – to come and be our Emmanuel – the God with us. We listen to the promises of God that have elevated these expectations in our hearts. We receive the word of God and are called to hope as we wait. But we wait knowing that we will not be let down, because God’s promises are more than mere words. God’s promises come to life by the power of the Holy Spirit – and in the life of the promised savior of the world, Jesus.
Advent is indeed a time of expectations – the greatest of all expectations.
God of expectations – grant that we may hear your Word and witness its power in the world. Amen.
The Rev. John T. Heidgerd is Pastor at Emmanuel Lutheran Church, Souderton, PA.
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