Sunday Rewind 12.3.06

Signs are wonderful things. Without them, we'd be confused, unsure where we are, and have no idea where to find important places. But not all signs are helpful. Some give mixed signals while others are impossible to interpret.

The Scriptures for the 1st Sunday in Advent center on signs. Specifically, they focus on the signs of Christ's return. On this subject, Jesus gave no mixed signals. He told us what signs to look for, what those signs mean, and how we should respond when we see them.

Even a quick read of Luke 21:25-36 shows us that although the we may not know the when's or how's, Christ's return is certain. God has given his word on that matter (v. 33). His return will be obvious, coming upon all who live on the face of the earth (v.35). And he expect his disciples to be ready (v. 36). So he gave us signs to look for.

As we begin Advent 2006, it's pretty easy to see that the signs of Christ's return are all around us. Our world is full of turmoil...environmental...national...religious...you name it.

Some respond to these signs with fear. 24/7 media outlets bombard us with bad news. Add the troubles of our own lives and you have the perfect recipe for despair. Jesus said there'd be days like this (v. 26). But disciples need not fear.

Some respond to the signs with apathy. After all, trouble in the world is nothing new. And since Jesus hasn’t come for 2,000 years, why should he come now? Jesus said there'd be days like this (v.34). But disciples ought not be apathetic.

If you look at v. 28, you'll find how Christians should respond when they see the signs of Christ's return. "Stand up, lift up you heads, for your redemption is drawing near". Christians can respond to the turmoil of the world with hope for three reasons:
1. We know how to interpret the signs.
2. We know the One who is coming.
3. We know what He is bringing...redemption.

So, my friends, welcome to the Season of Advent. Yes, Advent is a time of preparing for Christmas. Go ahead and hang the garland, bake the cookies and enjoy the parties.

But don’t forget that Advent is not merely about preparing for Christmas. It’s also a time to remind ourselves not to misread the shocking signs in our world as reasons to despair.

Instead, they are signals to stand up and raise our heads, because our redemption is drawing near.