Advent Devotion: December 8, 2023
Mark 13: 24-31
Joyful Anticipation
I did not go to church as a child. The church I first attended as an adult often spoke of the end times; Jesus returning and the rapture. It was scary to think about rolling clouds, the apocalypse and I often pictured people falling into a giant hole with fire and brimstone at the bottom. Terrifying. I have learned a lot during 20 years of sermons, readings, and teachings. I have surrounded myself with people who are knowledgeable and patient with my endless questions for better understanding. Turns out; the return of Christ…not so scary but there is anticipation, joy, love; the desire to live a life in accordance with God.
I understand the power of anticipation; of waiting. I reflect often on what it means to “bear fruit”. Living in anticipation of the promise of “summer”. God wants us to live a life that shows love for one another. During Advent, I feel an acute reminder of what it feels like to wait for the arrival of something; something life-changing and bold. To live in a way that is life-sustaining and restoring, not only to me but to my community and anyone I interact with. Am I living a life that lives in joyful anticipation?
Challenge: During Advent, we spend a lot of time going through the motions of it all. Devotions, sermons, multiple services throughout the month of December. Take a few minutes to reflect on whether you are going through the motions or are you truly present; living in anticipation.
Prayer: God, help us to be truly present in the lives of others. Help us to live a life that brings joy, comfort and care to the community we live in. Amen.
Mark 13: 24-31
Joyful Anticipation
I did not go to church as a child. The church I first attended as an adult often spoke of the end times; Jesus returning and the rapture. It was scary to think about rolling clouds, the apocalypse and I often pictured people falling into a giant hole with fire and brimstone at the bottom. Terrifying. I have learned a lot during 20 years of sermons, readings, and teachings. I have surrounded myself with people who are knowledgeable and patient with my endless questions for better understanding. Turns out; the return of Christ…not so scary but there is anticipation, joy, love; the desire to live a life in accordance with God.
I understand the power of anticipation; of waiting. I reflect often on what it means to “bear fruit”. Living in anticipation of the promise of “summer”. God wants us to live a life that shows love for one another. During Advent, I feel an acute reminder of what it feels like to wait for the arrival of something; something life-changing and bold. To live in a way that is life-sustaining and restoring, not only to me but to my community and anyone I interact with. Am I living a life that lives in joyful anticipation?
Challenge: During Advent, we spend a lot of time going through the motions of it all. Devotions, sermons, multiple services throughout the month of December. Take a few minutes to reflect on whether you are going through the motions or are you truly present; living in anticipation.
Prayer: God, help us to be truly present in the lives of others. Help us to live a life that brings joy, comfort and care to the community we live in. Amen.
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Cristi (she/her) is the Director of Administration for Youth Mission Co. Along with her work at YMCo, she has also worked with several Asheville churches and nonprofits. Cristi enjoys traveling, reading, reading, more reading and spending time with her children (her son-in-laws too!) and granddaughter. |
