Are You Ready To Meet Jesus?

SCRRIPTURE

Romans 8:22-25 (NRSV)

We know that the whole creation has been groaning in labor pains until now; and not only the creation, but we ourselves, who have the first fruits of the Spirit, groan inwardly while we wait for adoption, the redemption of our bodies. For in hope we were saved. Now hope that is seen is not hope. For who hopes for what is seen? But if we hope for what we do not see, we wait for it with patience.


ADVENT DEVOTION

Advent means, "To come..." I love the imagery of a pregnant woman waiting to labor and meet her new baby. During pregnancy, you wait with great expectation. You can't wait to see the little one growing inside of you--or inside of the one whom you love. You sense signs of the impending birth--a kick here, a poke there. You begin to plan for the coming of the child, setting up the nursery, choosing names, or buying carseats. Your every minute is consummed with dreaming of the little one that will soon enter the Earth, as a gift from heaven.

Now, let's translate that into the second coming of Christ in glory. Are we waiting with the same glad anticipation? Are we excited to see him face to face? Do we notice the signs that the time is drawing near? Have we begun to plan to welcome him in glory? Is our every thought consummed with the soon coming of our Great and Glorious King?

Advent allows us to slow down. To wait. To pray. To hope. To dream. To anticipate. And to welcome Jesus Christ into our homes, hearts, and plans for CHRISTmas! Although we do not know the exact date of His coming, we know that we can expect him soon.

Are you ready to meet Jesus?


PRAYER

Dear God, help me to anticipate the coming of your Son in glory! Amen.