Advent Devotion: December 9, 2023
Mark 13: 32-37
Now
My parents have what I call the “Open Door Policy”. Their home is always in a state of preparedness that welcomes visitors. Anyone can show up at any time and visit on the front porch, sit inside around the countertop in the kitchen, comfortably relax in the living room, eat a meal in the dining room. Need a place to rest your head? There is a place available in their home. My parents are the definition of welcoming. They keep awake.
“But about the day or hour no one knows..” Only God knows when Christ will return. “Be aware, keep alert..” Be prepared now, here in the present as we wait. God does not want us to passively wait. Waiting is engaging with others; together working for the good of all, in the present, while looking to the future. Keep awake. Be prepared. Stay engaged. Love fearlessly.
“Furrows, be glad. Though earth is bare,
One more seed is planted there:
Give up your strength the seed to nourish,
That in course the flower may flourish.
People, look east and sing today:
Love, the rose, is on the way.”
-from People, Look East by Eleanor Farjeon
Challenge: Talk to someone today that you don’t normally speak with. Make time to actively engage them in conversation.
Prayer: Father, thank you for your word that reminds us to be humble; that we do not know all. Amen.
Mark 13: 32-37
Now
My parents have what I call the “Open Door Policy”. Their home is always in a state of preparedness that welcomes visitors. Anyone can show up at any time and visit on the front porch, sit inside around the countertop in the kitchen, comfortably relax in the living room, eat a meal in the dining room. Need a place to rest your head? There is a place available in their home. My parents are the definition of welcoming. They keep awake.
“But about the day or hour no one knows..” Only God knows when Christ will return. “Be aware, keep alert..” Be prepared now, here in the present as we wait. God does not want us to passively wait. Waiting is engaging with others; together working for the good of all, in the present, while looking to the future. Keep awake. Be prepared. Stay engaged. Love fearlessly.
“Furrows, be glad. Though earth is bare,
One more seed is planted there:
Give up your strength the seed to nourish,
That in course the flower may flourish.
People, look east and sing today:
Love, the rose, is on the way.”
-from People, Look East by Eleanor Farjeon
Challenge: Talk to someone today that you don’t normally speak with. Make time to actively engage them in conversation.
Prayer: Father, thank you for your word that reminds us to be humble; that we do not know all. Amen.
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. |