Kingdom Revelator Australia – Issue 74
It’s once again that time of the year whenfestivities seems to be reigning high on our list. But this year things will be a little different. Throughout the pandemic, Christians have lived by faith, which has enabled them to build themselves up in the midst of these uncertain times. Jesus came to give hope and spread joy and He is still doing it. “Do not be afraid; I am bringing you good news of great joy for all the people” (Luke 2:10). Pandemic or not, Christmas is not cancelled.
Advent is a time of expectation, joy and hope. Two thousand years ago the people of Israel were also expecting a gift – the Messiah. Through the most powerful and authentic ‘yes’ in history, the concept of God for humanity, changed forever. Until then the people’s perception of God was of a distant God, someone who was up above, but through the birth of Jesus, He became a God who dwelt among them. Advent invites us once again, in the midst of our many difficulties, to renew our awareness that God is near to us and present in our midst.
Mary was ready to say yes to the will of God. Her heart was filled with joy in following His will. CCC 722 tells us that the Holy Spirit prepared Mary through His grace. On the other hand, if we look at Joseph, who is described in the Bible as a righteous man, the journey might have been much tougher. Yet his gaze was fixed on God and He followed God’s invitation to be the father of His only Son on earth. Romans 8:28 reminds us, all things work together for good for those who love God, who are called according to His purpose.
Dear friends in Christ, sometimes things don’t turn out as we planned but we have to trust in God and believe that He has a greater plan about our life. And to know this plan we must live a God centred life. Psalmist tells us to be still and know that He is God. Today, open your ears and listen to His voice, for He is standing at the door and knocking. Wishing you a blessed Christmas.