Mark Sorensen Welcome, Advent season.
It seems that the older I get, the faster time goes. I hear that phrase and statement a lot. And, honestly, there’s a lot of truth to the thought. The more I reflect on this truth, however, the more I am left to wonder if it’s because we do it to ourselves. We fill our lives with so much stuff, so much noise and to-do’s that, at the end of the day, we’re already looking at tomorrow and what needs to be done. I have to work harder at fully being in “the moment” and not running ahead of it (I still have to remind myself, “don’t run ahead of God, just walk with Him).
So Advent is here and it’s a season of reflection and anticipation. It’s a daily journey towards the manger reflecting on God’s gift to each of us through Jesus Christ and the hope found in this truth and in His love. So, let me ask. Amidst the shopping, lists, schedules, holiday baking, deadlines and to-do’s:
What does Jesus want this Christmas?
In John’s gospel, take a look at Jesus’ words prior to His journey to the cross:
“Father, I desire that those also, whom you have given me, may be with me where I am, to see my glory, which you have given me because you loved me before the foundation of the world.” John 17:24 (NRSV)
I love this verse. Jesus offers a prayer for each of us that, His desire, is that we would see His glory. Take a moment and let that sink in. Jesus, the Son of God, desires for you and me to see and savor His glory.
So, thus begins the challenge. Culture is racing. The ads, commercials and jingles will be at max volume. And, hear this… these are not all bad things. My prayer for each of us is that we don’t miss it.
His desire? To know Him personally and intimately. I can’t think of a better truth to begin with on this journey.
