Church Year Focus: When The Lord Comes Near
“Advent” is a Latin word that means “coming.” The season of Advent is the four week period before Christmas that the Church uses to connect the two “comings” of Christ. The first time the Lord came into our world it was as a tiny, helpless baby, born in a manger in Bethlehem. However, when Jesus comes again, it will be in all his power and glory with his angelic army behind him. He will be coming as judge at the end of time. Let us use these four weeks to see how the events of Jesus’ first coming remove all our fears about his second coming. We can hold our heads high when the Lord comes near.
Theme of the Day: When The Lord Comes Near, He Humbles His Enemies
Last week we saw that the Lord sends messengers to call us to repentance. This week we learn that those who refuse to heed that call to humble themselves will be humbled anyway. The Lord who once came near in flesh and now comes near in Word and Sacrament will one day come near with consuming fire and judgment. The Lord will humble his enemies. This truth does two important things. First, it adds urgency to God’s Advent call to repentance. Second, it gives us comfort when we, as God’s people, experience opposition from the world. Those who oppress and harm God’s people will face justice.
Luke 3:7-18
Zephaniah 3:14-17
Philippians 4:4-7
Psalm 130
3 – Lift Up Your Heads, You Mighty Gates
18 – O Lord, How Shall I Meet You
310 – I Come, O Savior, to Your Table
524 – Rejoice, the Lord Is King
Prayer of the Day: Hear our prayers, Lord Jesus Christ, and come with the good news of your mighty deliverance. Drive the darkness from our hearts, and fill us with your light; for you live and reign with the Father and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever.
Gospel Acclamation: Matthew 11:10
Alleluia. I will send my messenger ahead of you, who will prepare your way before you. Alleluia.