Advent

Advent historically splits our vision into two focal points in time: the first coming of Christ in the manger and His second coming in glory. For some reason, this dual vision unsettles me. And, it’s probably supposed to, in the wisdom of our forbearers who established the liturgical calendar for the church. We are not allowed to only rejoice in the tiny baby in the manger, but we must grapple with the reality that this is also the one who died and rose again and will come again to judge both the quick and the dead. Here are some implications I’ve been thinking of for our daily life:
 
– Focusing on both comings of Christ makes everything significant.
– Focusing on both comings of Christ means that humility and glory are held tightly together.
– Lastly, focusing on both comings of Christ gives hope in our waiting.
 
As we wait in between the times, during this Advent, may we feel the pressure of Christ’s humility at our backs, crushing our resistance to washing feet, serving others, loving when we are exhausted. And here, too, as we face forward, we believe in the glory of Christ to come and we believe that imitating Christ in his suffering will be worth it in view of an “eternal weight of glory.” We are hemmed in by humility and glory.
 
Grace and peace,

Anita Sorenson
Pastor for Spiritual Formation