From the Pulpit-Nov. 27-First Week of Advent
Romans 13:11-14, Psalms 22
An Invitation

When was the last time you got an invitation?  Was the person excited or was it a "have to"? Were you excited in return or was it a "have to"?  And what about the day of the invent?  Still excited?  or is it one of those events where you have to get all dressed up?  or maybe you have to prepare something to take with you?


The getting ready for an event can be trouble--especially if you are taking people with you who don't really want to go.  Some people say that the hour before church can be the worse hour of the week!  Some people say that the hour before church belongs to you know who!  You may be familiar with every trick that he can come up with to try to get you not to go!  Yes, getting ready for something important can be hard.  And waiting for something really important can be hard, too.

But once the preparation is over and the waiting is over and the event begins, you usually realize that it was worth it!  That is advent.  It is preparing your heart and mind.  It is waiting for the Son of God with longing and hope.  And it is the wonderful feeling when Jesus reaches out and welcomes you in and says, "You answered my invitation!  I'm so glad!"  or maybe He says, "I've missed you!"

On this first week of advent, it is similar to entering into the 3rd watch of the night; that time just before daybreak when it seems the darkest. Our scriptures in Romans talk of moving toward the promise of a new world, a new relationship with God, a new life full of the hope of better things--and you are invited.

Psalms 122 speaks of keeping our mind focused and excited about being there, being in the house of the Lord, not getting there.  You must sometimes let go of the past and not be concerned with judgment.  For in the Lord's house there is peace within the walls, security in the tower, and prosperity for those who love the Lord.  And you are invited.

Jesus is holding out His hand as an invitation to you.  An invitation to join a journey through life with His company.  This journey begins with this advent season.  And you are invited.