But in those days, after that suffering, the sun will be darkened, and the moon will not give its light, and the stars will be falling from heaven, and the powers in the heavens will be shaken.
Then they will see the Son of Man coming in clouds with great power and glory. But about that day or hour no one knows, neither the angels in heaven, nor the Son, but only the Father.
Keep alert, for you do not know when the time will come…in the evening, or at midnight, or at dawn. Keep awake. (Mark 13:24-26, 32, 33, 35, 37, NRSV)
Such amazing things happen in the sky to herald the return of the Son of Man:. . . Jesus, coming in the clouds. . . the sun grows dark. . . the moon doesn't shine. . . and stars fall from the heavens
So different from that first coming more than 2000 years ago:. . . with angels singing of God's glory and peace on earth . . . with the single star guiding the way to the manger . . . with shepherds and wisemen -- rich and poor -- coming to worship.
As we light the first light of Advent, we watch, and wait, and stay alert, waiting again for the coming of Jesus.
And we light a single candle in preparation for that glorious day.
[Light the first candle on the Advent wreath.]
Dear God, help us to watch, wait and be alert as we wait for the coming of Jesus.
Come, Lord Jesus, come. Amen.
This reminds me of my mother. She was very religious and I believe hearing something like this from her. Long time ago though.
ReplyDeleteHave a terrific day. Big hug. :)