Mark
13:33-37 -Watch for Jesus’ unexpected
coming. Because the time of Christ’s return is unknown, we must watch for Him.
In this brief lesson the word “watch”
is used four times. Twice Jesus says, “You
do not know when the time will come.” This fact is the reason for being on
the alert. The emphasis is laid on Jesus’ return as sudden and unexpected.
There is no place here for speculation when the time
of the return of Christ will be. It is an exhortation to be ready whenever He
comes. Since no one knows the time, it is necessary for the faithful to look
for Him every day. The mood of Advent is not speculation but joyful
anticipation of the Lord’s return. Be on the alert for the sudden, unannounced
coming of Christ.
Today is Thanksgiving. The first National thanksgiving
was enacted by President Lincoln in the midst of bloody civil war -1863. This
parish has never missed thanksgiving
neither shall we miss this years’ however strange it may be. This community has
faced numerous challenges; a pandemic one-hundred years ago, fierce wars,
economic hard times, poor crops, severe storms. We’ve also witnessed much
bounty and numerous blessings. Through the passing of time we were born, went
to school, were confirmed, married, had our children, focused on our career and
entered into retirement.
We make it the habit of marking time. It helps us
remain connected to what has happened in the past and it gives us some sort of indicator
by which to predict the future. Yet, we worship a Savior who is timeless, who
has prepared for us a place where there is no time. As we recall the changes
and changes of this ever-churning world may we recall that in Christ we live
and move and have our being. He will direct us. He will sustain us. For His
mercy, which endures to this present day, may we thank, and praise, serve and
obey Him. Blessed Thanksgiving!
Collect for Thanksgiving - Almighty God,
Your mercies are new every morning and Your generously provide for all our
needs of body and soul. Grant us Your Holy Spirit that we may acknowledge Your
goodness, give thanks for Your benefits, and serve You in willing obedience all
our days.[1]
[1]Collect for Thanksgiving © 2006 Lutheran Service Book Concordia Publishing House, St Louis
Thanksgiving Image © Google Images
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