Don't worry! Be happy! Let's celebrate!

These are definitely welcome words at this time in our history. How can we not worry? As we look around, it appears that evil is triumphing over good. It seems as if, in the words of the psalmist, "the wicked sprout and spread like grass" (Psalm 92:7a, CEV) as wars and rumors of wars engulf our world. Yet, the Scriptures encourage us to "celebrate and shout," to put away our troubles and our fears because God, who is always with us, will refresh our life with his love (Zephaniah 3:14-17). And, we who belong to Christ Jesus, will be blessed "with peace that no one can completely understand" (Philippians 4:7a, CEV).

Peace! What a comforting thought. These Scriptures echo the angel's pronouncement in Luke's gospel, "Don't be afraid! I have good news for you, which will make everyone happy...a Savior was born for you. He is Christ the Lord. ...Praise God in heaven! Peace on earth to everyone who pleases God" (2:10,11b,14, CEV).

Advent is about waiting to hear that good news again and experience such peace. But as we wait expectantly for the Savior, there are several ways we can keep busy and prepare ourselves for his arrival. Like the crowds who thronged John the Baptist we may ask, "What should we do?" (Luke 3:10b, CEV).

John offered several suggestions as he exhorted the people to turn their hearts to the Lord. We might start by genuinely caring about those around us. Is there anyone who is hungry? Lonely? Anyone who needs clothing or shelter or a sympathetic ear? We can do our best to take care of their needs. We can also take an introspective look at ourselves. Do we cheat, take bribes, or stranglehold those who are weak? Do we treat others unfairly because of their race or their ethnicity or their religious beliefs? If we do, we must repent and ask God's forgiveness of our sins.

We cannot clean up our lives by ourselves. Nor can we be truly happy until we make the necessary preparations. We need God's help. "God planned for us to do good things and to live as he has always wanted us to live. That's why he sent Christ to make us what we are" (Ephesians 2:10, CEV).

The urgency in John's voice still echoes today. He called the people of his day to repentance. Today, that call is even more earnest. We are called to a season of national repentance to prepare ourselves for the parousia, the Second Coming of our Lord.

Let us celebrate and be glad because "the Lord will soon be here" (Philippians 4:5). Even so, Lord Jesus, come! Amen.