Two realities hit us from our
lesson for today. First, Christ will in fact return to this earth. But He has
already prepared us and continues to sustain us as we anticipate His coming.
Christians are well prepared therefore we wait for Him confidently.
While the LORD prepares us for
the day of Christ by giving us the Gospel, this Gospel produces something in us
He prepares us for the last day of Christ by bringing forth in us the fruit of
faith. Your sin being forgiven will not be mentioned. They have lost their
power and effect. Satan cannot accuse you any longer.
Christ is preparing us for His
return in glory by giving us the gospel and by bringing forth in us the fruit
of faith. Take comfort in the promises of the Gospel. Cling to Christ sure and
certain words. In Christ you are being prepared, perfected and made ready.
A prayer for peace in the world: Heavenly Father, God of all concord, it is Your gracious will that Your children on earth live together in harmony and peace. Defeat the plans of all those who would stir up violence and strife, destroy the weapons of those who delight in war and bloodshed, and, according to Your will, end all conflicts in the world. Teach us to examine our hearts that we may recognize our own inclination toward envy, malice, hatred, and enmity. Help us, by Your Word and Spirit, to search our hearts and to root out the evil that would lead to strife and discord, so that in our lives we may be at peace with all people. Fill us with zeal for the work of Your Church and the proclamation of the Gospel of Jesus Christ, which alone can bring that peace which is beyond all understanding; through Jesus Christ, Your Son, our Lord, who lives and reigns with You and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever. Amen. [2]
[1] Advent,
copyright © Ed Riojas, Higher Things
[2] A
collect for peace in this world, Lutheran Service Book © 2006 Concordia
Publishing House, St. Louis
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