The first Sunday in the season of Advent presents us with a paradox - the beginning of a new church year and a gospel lesson that reminds us of the end of time. The return of the Son of Man, "coming in a cloud with great power and glory," (Luke 21:27, CEV) will be marked by cosmic disturbances (21:25). The eschatological imagery calls to mind a number of Old Testament passages (see Isaiah 13:10, Ezekiel 32:7; Daniel 7:13, 14; Joel 2:10, 30, 31).

Luke 21:25-36 offers us words of judgment and redemption that come from Jesus' apocalyptic discourse with his disciples, following Jesus' prediction of the destruction of the Temple in Jerusalem (21:5-8). The disciples seek to know "when these things are about to take place" (21:7, CEV), and they ask for a "sign" (semeion). Subsequently, Jesus describes the "signs" (semeia) that will take place in the heavens (21:25). In contrast to those who will be frightened at these events, Jesus offers words of deliverance for the faithful (21:28), with the assurance that redemption is at hand.

The discourse concludes with a warning to "watch out" and an exhortation to "keep praying" (21:36, CEV). We are to guard ourselves against being distracted by the worries of life. Vigilance and prayer are our watchwords while living each day in loving service to one another under the lordship of Jesus Christ. The apostle Paul prays that, "when our Lord comes," may our hearts be made "pure and innocent in the sight of God" (1 Thessalonians 3:13, CEV).

Beyond the end of time stands Jesus, our Lord and Savior. As we live "in between advents," we wait in faith and with hopeful expectation for the time when Christ will come again in power and glory at the close of the age. We need not cower in fear; rather we can "stand up straight and be brave" (Luke 21:28, CEV) and be ready to receive God's promised redemption.

Amen! Come Lord Jesus!