Even in a world that changes so quickly, many seem to be driven by a passion to maintain the status quo. Can we choose to live with a passion for God’s peace, to listen when God uses others to call us to righteousness, and to submit ourselves to God’s grace, that we might be refined and purified until we reflect God’s love throughout the earth. May we find ways to deeply reflect on the work of Jesus during this busy season. May his passion for being part of the way that his Kingdom comes, and his will gets done in the world today. Luke 3:1-6 will help guide our hearts as we worship today.

The first Sunday of Advent is here. Obviously it is also the first day of December, and we all likely have some preparations for things coming up in the weeks ahead. In many ways, Advent works against so many of the hectic and superficial ways the holidays wear on us. In a world that encourages us to rush, Advent is our reminder that we are waiting. Even though we get to experience so much of Christ’s goodness and love, we are only getting warmed up for the fullness of God’s plan for creation. We are promised that when Jesus returns everything falls into place. Let us fix our eyes on Jesus in Luke 21:25-36 as we prepare our hearts to receive God’s gifts this season.