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Advent as Preparation and Engagement

“He who testifies to these things says, ‘Surely I am coming soon.’ Amen. Come, Lord Jesus!” (Revelation 22:20). Advent reminds us to wait and prepare for the Lord’s second coming as we remember how He came in human flesh and dwells with us always.
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The Words of Christ—Luke 17:26-33 (“Remember Lot’s Wife”)

“Remember Lot’s wife.” Jesus reminded His disciples that, when He returns, society will be much like it was in the time of Noah or in Sodom just before Lot escaped.
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The Words of Christ—Matthew 24:36-41

“But about that day and hour no one knows, not even the angels of heaven, nor the Son, but the Father alone” (Matthew 24:36).
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The Words of Christ—Matthew 24:4-8

“See to it that no one misleads you. For many will come in My name, saying, ‘I am the Christ,’ and they will mislead many people. And you will be hearing of wars and rumors of wars. See that you are not alarmed, for those things must take place, but that is not yet the…
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Get Ready!

As we begin Advent, a new year begins on the church calendar. We leave the past behind us and look ahead in anticipation.
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Christmas: Phase 1 of Redemption

Christmas is Phase 1 of God’s invasion to rescue humanity from the dominion of sin and Satan. His birth, life, death, resurrection, ascension, and second coming are all part of God’s plan to offer us eternal life. Let us cling to that gift.
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Craving Righteousness: Until He Comes (Matthew 5:6; Isaiah 42:1-4)

A few thoughts about righteousness and justice in light of Christ’s second coming (Matthew 5:6; Isaiah 42:1-4).
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Christ’s Ascension: Eternal Hope in a Chaotic World

He ascended into heaven, and is seated at the right hand of the Father. He will come again to judge the living and the dead (The Apostle’s Creed).
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Endure to the End—Matthew 24:9-14

Do not grow discouraged. Yes, we live in difficult times. Lawlessness is rampant: In our culture, in our government, and even in the church. Persecution seems to be creeping in, even in the “land of the free and home of the brave.” Christians have probably never been more marginalized in America than they are now.…
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Getting Ready
While the world calls us to stores and sales, Christians need to focus more on the coming of the Lord, and His current abiding presence in our lives. That is the message of Advent, as we await the joyous celebration of Christmas. Let us not be swept away by the storm of secularism and materialism…