Sunday December 2nd, 2018 1st Sunday of Advent Luke 21:25-36
"Heaven and earth will pass away, but my words will not pass away." (verse 33)
Jesus speaks to his followers in another parable, the parable of the fig tree. When we look at the bare branches of a tree in the depths of winter cold, we don’t see much sign of hope or new life. The tree looks stark and dead. Or does it? As I look out my window on what I hope will be the last frigid days of winter, I can see that the buds on some species-elm and linden-are swollen, a portent of new life that is on the way.
Also, as I write, we have just come through the solemn season of Lent. On Ash Wednesday, our pastor explained to us that the word Lent comes from Old English and refers to spring, literally the “lengthening of days.” It’s a long stretch, those 40 days, but at the end is Easter. Death is conquered, and we have new life in our risen Lord.
God’s promise for the ages: “And remember, I am with you always, to the end of the age.” (Matthew 28:20)
God of new life, help us to hold to the promises in your Word. Amen. — DAK
Contributed by For All Eternity
Jesus speaks to his followers in another parable, the parable of the fig tree. When we look at the bare branches of a tree in the depths of winter cold, we don't see much sign of hope or new life. The tree looks stark and dead. Or does it? As I look out my window on what I hope will be the last frigid days of winter, I can see that the buds on some species-elm and linden-are swollen, a portent of new life that is on the way.
Also, as I write, we have just come through the solemn season of Lent. On Ash Wednesday, our pastor explained to us that the word Lent comes from Old English and refers to spring, literally the "lengthening of days." It's a long stretch, those 40 days, but at the end is Easter. Death is conquered, and we have new life in our risen Lord.
God's promise for the ages: "And remember, I am with you always, to the end of the age." (Matthew 28:20)
