Christ Our Shepherd Advent Devotion Series 2023
Tradition Thursday
December 7, 2023
Wes Saunders
Today’s devotion comes from Wes Saunders, long-time member and facilitator of Sunday Morning Adult Study class Text Talk which meets at 9:45am in the conference room.
Expectation and Realization
The voice of one shouting in the wilderness, prepare the way for the Lord, make his path straight. Matthew 3:3b (CEB)
John the Baptist was that voice crying out and preparing the way, hoping that those who heard would be expecting and ready for the time when the Messiah would come. John’s ability to recognize Jesus when he came was not shared by the religious leaders or even most people. His expectation coupled with his realization of the Christ provides a blueprint for this Advent season. We are anticipating the Baby’s arrival, hopefully preparing the way. Will we, like John, amidst all the Christmas hoopla, recognize the Messiah? Our advantage, of course, is we know that He came.
So, the question now is how does that knowledge and Christ Presence make some difference in our lives and those around us? My friend, Marilyn, says that we can be living in the Kingdom of God now because of 2000 years ago. Claiming that Kingdom, at least partially, now and letting God’s grace permeate our being and actions has to follow from that event.
John the Baptist expected and realized. Our expectation (and hope!) is that we can realize Christ’s Presence this Advent season.
Dear Lord,
Thank you for our friends and family and our church. We pray that we show to our community your grace and love. We thank you for your Son and pray in His Strong Name.
Amen
