Tomb of the Unknown Soldier (Arlington, VA) by Russ Sprague

The Advent Door Reading Plan
Day 3 Reading: Luke 21:25-36

Scripture Summary:
Jesus’ discussion of his second coming as related by Luke holds much in common with Matthew and Mark’s versions
1. The sun, moon, stars, and seas will display signs of his return
2. The signs will be as clear as the seasons of a fig tree

Advent reminds us, year in and year out, that although we are to keep a weather eye out for cosmic signs, we must, like the fig tree that Jesus evokes in this passage, be rooted in the life of the earth. And in the rhythm of our daily lives here on earth, Christ bids us to practice the apocalypse. He calls us in each day and moment to do the things that will stir up our courage and keep us grounded in God, not only that we may perceive Christ when he comes, but also that we may recognize him even now.
– Jan Richardson, Through the Advent Door

The Advent of Jesus Christ is a present and future reality. Jesus is Emmanuel, God with us, and Jesus is King of Glory, who will come again at the end of the age to put a final end to all brokenness. Jesus invites us to live the reality of his current saving presence while at the same time looking forward to the culmination of that salvation for those who believe and the rest of creation.

Jesus proclaims that those who embrace the present and future reality of the Kingdom live very different lives than those who do not. Those who are unprepared find themselves weak with fear and foreboding at the in-breaking of Jesus. Those who are prepared are compared to a well-trained sentinel- at the ready, an eye-of-the-tiger focus and discipline, nourished and grounded like a tree with deep roots. The prepared have left behind “dissipation and drunkenness” to honor and fortify their bodies for the challenges of living a Christ-like life. They spend their mental and spiritual energy in prayer rather than on anxiety or worry. Through their deep connection to Christ, they have the strength to stand up for their Lord and with their Lord no matter the circumstance, head raised in hope, knowing God is near.

Jesus’ description of the prepared reminds me of those most honorable soldiers who guard the Tomb of the Unknowns at Arlington National Cemetery- day in and day out, no matter the weather, ready to defend, protect and keep watch. It also reminds me of the description of the righteous in Psalm 1– like strong trees, standing firm because they are rooted in the life-giving ways of God.

Tree of Life by Mark Kuhne “In the painting, the mighty tree represents strength and wisdom, a good and righteous man or leader and the great blessings that spring forth to the places where they stand. It also represents God’s glory! The tree has a strong foundation with roots that are deep and wide. Spiritually the roots draw blue water or nourishment from the Holy Spirit, and naturally, a leader draws from other leaders as well as from the Lord’s Word” -Mark Kuhne

In 1992, Hurricane Andrew came through south Florida. When the storm had passed, it looked like someone had dropped a bomb. The street signs and other landmarks were gone. It’s as if most of the houses had been made of matchsticks. They shattered, sending wood into rock hard tree trunks like a carving fork into a Thanksgiving turkey. Only a few houses survived. What’s so interesting is that most of these homes were built by Habitat for Humanity. Hand nailed by volunteers rather than thrown together as cheaply and quickly as possible. At the end of the storm, they stood like sentinels- testimonies to honor, focus, and being well prepared.

What changes do we need to make in our lives so that we too have the strength to stand in Christ Jesus, now and always.

Lyrics to He is Like a Tree, based on Psalm 1:3, by freechurchmusic.com
He is like a tree, planted by the river;
Its leaf never withers, for it grows in the richest sod.
He is like a tree, planted by the river,
That flows from the throne-room of God.
Sturdy and strong, for secure is its root;
And in due season, it sends forth its fruit.
Be like a tree planted by the river;
Its leaf never withers, for it grows in the richest sod.
Be like a tree, planted by the river
That flows from the throne-room of God.

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This year’s Advent reflections are inspired by the e-book Through the Advent Door: Entering a Contemplative Christmas [Kindle Edition] by author and artist Jan Richardson. In the style of a classic Advent calendar, Jan offers twenty-five reflections, each with an original piece of art. Consider this your invitation to join me and Jan on this journey to Christmas. – Lisa <><

For more information on the Christian season of Advent, click here

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