Our Advent Journey

Luke 1:26-38; 2:1-7

The Christmas story reminds us of the longing and patience we endure in waiting for the advent of the second coming of Jesus. When we reflect on Mary and her Journey from Nazareth to Bethlehem, it reminds us that the road we are on from this present world to heaven is one that is long and arduous.

As Mary and Joseph finally arrived at Bethlehem, they were tired and looking forward to a nice place of rest. To their surprise there were no rooms left in the inn and they were cast out into the cold, finding refuge in a dark, dingy stable to bring forth her son, the savior of the world. It was through much labor, trial, and tribulation that Mary brought forth her firstborn son, but what joy she had when she heard his first cry. It was the sound of redemption!

We too, like Mary, have been chosen by God to bring forth Jesus into the world by proclaiming the gospel. Unlike Mary, we do not carry Christ in a womb, but we carry him in our hearts and just like his natural birth, he awaits us to share him with others that he may be birthed into their hearts. Sharing Jesus with others is a simple task, but yet one that is most neglected because of the intimidation that comes along with it. Not feeling adequate, confident, or well versed enough is a form of intimidation in itself, much less the growing animosity toward Jesus in our culture that has increased in the last decade.

Mary felt inadequate to be the mother of the Son of God, but nevertheless she said, “so be it unto me.” What lessons can we learn from Mary on the long journey and restlessness that we are experiencing in this advent season that is accompanied by a pandemic, civil unrest, and uncertainty.

First, we must receive Jesus. Just as the Holy Spirit, in the incarnation, overshadowed Mary and placed the seed of Christ in her womb, the work of salvation is done the same way. Men and women receive Jesus through the new birth. Jesus said, “Except you be born again, you cannot enter into the kingdom of God.” (John 3:3) Salvation doesn’t come through church membership, good works, or the being the child of Christian parents. Jesus must be received by faith through repentance.

Secondly, we as Mary must carry Jesus in our hearts. Paul said that “Christ in us is the hope of glory.” (Colossians 1:27) We are not to wear Christianity on our sleeve as much as we acknowledge the indwelling presence of Christ within us through the person of the Holy Spirit. The journey is long, and we may grow weary and tired along the way, but nevertheless Christ is within us and strengthens us daily for the journey through his grace.

Lastly, we must bring forth Jesus. Just as Jesus was in her womb and Mary brought him forth visibly into the world, we must make Christ known to the world around us today. How is this done? By conforming to his image. Living and acting in the same way as he did. Following in his steps and setting forth a pattern of godliness in an ungodly world.

Our journey in this world as we continue towards heaven can be long, painful, and restless. But what a hope we have in knowing that when Christ comes again, he has a place prepared for us and the joy of heaven that awaits us. When that time comes it will not be a cry, but with a shout, a voice, and a trumpet!

Pastor Robby