Today, as we begin the Advent season, let us turn our hearts and minds to the blessed hope of our Lord Jesus Christ's coming. It is a time to reflect on the wonder of the incarnation and the promise of His return. As we wait with expectation, let us be reminded of the words of the apostle Paul in Romans 8:24-25:
"For in this hope we were saved. But hope that is seen is no hope at all. Who hopes for what they already have? But if we hope for what we do not yet have, we wait for it patiently." (NIV)
This patience is not a passive resignation, but an active expectation. It is the patient endurance of the saints, who, though they face trials and tribulations in this world, have their hearts and minds fixed on the eternal glory that awaits them.
As we wait, let us also remember the words of our Savior in Matthew 24:42:
"Therefore, stay awake, for you do not know on what day your Lord is coming." (ESV)
Let us be vigilant in our waiting, not allowing the cares and concerns of this world to distract us from our eternal hope. Let us be faithful in our service to our Lord, seeking to be found doing His will when He returns.
In closing, let us pray:
Heavenly Father, we thank you for the hope of our Lord Jesus Christ's coming. We ask that you would help us to wait patiently and vigilantly for His return. May we be found faithful in our service to you and may our hearts and minds be fixed on the eternal glory that awaits us. In Jesus' name we pray, Amen.
