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Isaiah 1: 21-31
1 Thessalonians 2:1-12
Luke 20-9-18
As we approach the 2007
Advent season with all the hustle and bustle of preparation and the many
anticipated joys of celebration, we often ignore or forget the many physical
and mental struggles experienced by our biblical ancestors. Many suffered from apathy, discouragement,
loss of purpose, and lack of obedience to God’s laws during their years of
living in unsettled political situations.
Using Isaiah and other prophets, God gave them warnings of their many
transgressions and offered hope, peace, love, and blessings to those redeemed.
Centuries later, Luke and
Paul recorded similar situations. As
Luke indicates, many doubts existed among the religious leaders of God’s chosen
people as to the authenticity of Jesus being the Son of God. As our scripture reference reports, this
belief was countered by the parable to the Son giving the dire warning that
those who reject the Messiah will be doomed.
Paul, likewise in his
message to the Thessalonians, emphasizes that his mission is to please God, not
men, and strongly urges them to live lives worthy of God.
To me these are the
messages of Advent in 2007. They have
not changed over the ages. It is a time
of renewal and reflection on the birth of our Savior. It is a time of extra commitment to live our
lives worthy of God. It is a time to
assess our God-given strengths and make extra efforts to share our talents and
love. It is a time to evaluate, express,
and project new ideas for future growth and influence in our community. Remember, God’s help is always available if
we become attuned to His way.
Prayer: Thank you, Lord, for your many blessings each
day. Help us to be continually aware of the significance of your coming. Grant us wisdom, care, and blessing as we
strive to do Thy will. Amen.
Ken Twentey
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ADVENT 2007
Epworth United Methodist Church