Dear Church family,
| This Sunday is Advent Sunday when we prepare to celebrate Jesus’ first coming to redeem us by remembering His return to establish His kingdom. Paul speaks of Jesus’ two comings in his letter to Titus (2:11-13) in these words: |
| ‘For the grace of God has appeared, bringing salvation for all people, training us to renounce ungodliness and worldly passions, and to live self-controlled, upright and godly lives in the present age, waiting for our blessed hope, the appearing of the glory of our great God and Saviour Jesus Christ …’ Titus 2:11-13 |
| Jesus came 2,000 years ago to assure all who trust Him of acceptance and welcome, at His return. This puts things into perspective:In an age where ‘now’ is all that matters, it reminds us that ‘then’ is more important.In an age of distraction, it reminds us that the one thing that’s necessary is to sit at His feet and listen to Him.In an age where many voices compete for our attention, it reminds us that His is the one voice that we must heed.In an age of leisure and pleasure, it reminds us that we’re to seek first His Kingdom and His righteousness and trust that will bring us the pleasure and rest we yearn for.In an age of self-indulgence, it reminds us that really what we need is self-control.Advent Sunday is the perfect opportunity to ask ourselves: ‘Would I be ready to welcome Him if He came back tonight?’, ‘Are my loved ones and neighbours ready for His return?’, and ‘Might they appreciate an invitation to our Christmas celebrations?’ |
| Your brother in Christ, Ian |