November 28, 2010

Scriptures for November 28th: Isaiah 2:1-5; Psalm 122; Romans 13:11-14; Matthew 24:36-44 Theme: Advent as a time of preparation, awareness and awakening.

Romans: Romans is a book that we all depend upon for faith. It gives us much advice on what it means to keep the faith in tough times. In this paragraph, we are told to put on the armor of light. In those days, you were known for what type of clothes you put on in the morning. If you put on a crown, then you were an athlete, running for the prize. If you were a soldier, then you put on your armor in order to protect yourself. We as Christians are too known for what we put on in the morning. Sometimes we dress lightly, but other times we have to put on the full armor of God. As Christmas comes, we will see the world at its worst – every sin imaginable will be done in the spirit of Christmas – stealing, lying, indulgence, jealousy – you name it. What better time to put on the armor of light – to protect us from temptation, but to show the world what it means to love Christ and to do what is right. Let this be a spiritual time, not a time of physical pleasure.

Matthew : Advent always starts with the end in mind. It could be easy to think that this scripture is talking about rapture. But in this case, you don’t want to be the one taken up. It is like being taken by surprise and being robbed. You want to be the one grounded in the word of God. When you are awake and aware you know what it happening. You want to be ready to see God at any time and in any person, and any situation. Being in the presence of God is the source of our happiness. When things are at the worst; that is just a sign that the joy of the Lord is on its way. This season, let us welcome the joy of the Lord in our lives. Let us be aware, and wait in anticipation of what God will bring. The end,means that there is a new beginning coming soon.

Questions: If our faith is a journey, where are you now? Are you,in the valley, or on the hill? What are some ways to be prepared for Christmas? What are some ways to separate yourself from the world’s celebration? How can we make Christmastime a more spiritual time? What are you doing to ready yourself for the coming of Christ’s kingdom? What are some ways to be aware of God’s presence in your life?