This is the first Sunday in Advent, the time when we anticipate the birth of Christ on Christmas day. In the book of Revelations, Christ said He was the Alpha (the beginning) and the Omega (the ending). He came to us as a child for His first coming, and He will come again a second time to welcome all who believe into the Kingdom of God. Today, we are living our lives somewhere in the middle of the Alpha and the Omega.
Advent is the time where we struggle with the harshness of our current lives. This is the season when Christ comes to help us navigate and break through the agonies we are feeling. America is struggling with its justice system, is facing a civil war of attitudes and actions towards so many political, economic, health, and relationship issues, is witnessing the use of social media to self-amplify our contempt of people and issues, and is feeling the effects of a culture that raises up controversial issues as the norm and puts down positive movements for human achievements.
Throughout the year, we need to trust God to give us justice and righteousness; His perfect justice will open us up to the truth and help us to get back on the right path. During Advent, we need to make a way for others who have no way to find a path to Him. This season is the rehabilitation program that gives us what we need. Jesus Christ, Emmanuel, is our hope and our expectation; Emmanuel “is with us.” We can be the light in unbearable times, the light that shines through our words, thoughts, and actions to those who do not believe and those who are struggling with their identities.
There is a gospel song that seems fitting for this first Advent Sunday. I will paraphrase the lyrics. Lord, help us to take one day at a time. Give us strength to do what we have to do. Lord, I believe times are worse today than when you walked here. Help me to walk through these troubled times and show me the way. Help me to walk with You and give Your love to those who need help. Help us to find hope in your light and to anticipate Your blessed birth on Christmas day. A-men.
Anna Hartt
