“Often I hear people say they do not have time to read. That’s absolute nonsense. In the one year during which I kept that kind of record, I read twenty-five books while waiting for people. In offices, applying for jobs, waiting to see a dentist, waiting in a restaurant for friends, many such places.” Louie L’ Amour, (1908-1988) American Autho

In the 1980 comedy golf movie, Caddyshack, a pivotal climax moment comes when a putt must be made. A large bet is made and then doubled on this putt. There is a tense pause with silence as the young man gets ready to make the putt… then the antagonist loudly says, “We’re waiting!”

Waiting for something that is expected can be exciting and strained. 

In the church there is a tension between the joyful arrival of infant Jesus with angels singing –and His second coming as we live in this world of suffering asking, “Are we there yet?” 

Jesus has come; He will come again. 

What informs your understanding of Advent? (from the Latin word “adventus” which means “coming”) 

If your congregation was asked if they were excited about Christ’s return, would they respond, “Can He come after Christmas dinner, I’ve bought the ham?”

We need an apocalyptic hope. Not a cluttering of Christmas commerce.  

The person in the pew longs to be inspired by advent candles and be the victor when the sermon ends as they listen attentively. However, our Saving Emissary and His incarnate Son dismiss our efforts of self-justification. The Lord’s work is done on our behalf and our waiting requires a gritty readiness mix of obedience, action and humility. Waiting is not passive. It is a place for Christians to be transformed into Christlikeness. In the hard places, in the long journey between here and there. 

The King of the Universe resided with us, submitted to being a slave, delivered us from darkness and promised to renew Heaven and Earth. Most of us barely forgive our prickly family members. 

Double your bet–He IS coming again. 

We’re waiting. 

Oh, that you would rend the heavens and come down,

    that the mountains would tremble before you!

…We are the clay, you are the potter;

    we are all the work of your hand. –Isaiah 64:1,8b

Prayer: 

Restore us, O God;
    make your face shine on us,
    that we may be saved.

Return to us, God Almighty!

    Look down from heaven and see! 

Let my waiting be Your benefit, Lord. Your smile will be our blessing and our salvation. 

Amen

(-from Psalm 80)