by 
Saturday, December 3
From our fears and sins release us; Christ, in whom our rest shall be.
From Come, O Long-expected Jesus
By Rick R.
Advent is a time of anticipation—a necessary and important part of the believer’s life.
Preparation is a key action associated with this anticipation. In preparation for Christ’s first appearance, John the Baptist provided a “baptism of repentance for the forgiveness of sins” (Luke 3:3). Crowds were coming to receive John’s baptism (it was, after all, the popular thing to do); but, he saw that the people were not prepared for the coming of Christ. There was no evidence in their lifestyles that they understood Christ’s message. After calling them “a brood of vipers” (Luke 3:7), John the Baptist went on to say “Bear fruits worthy of repentance.” (Luke 3:8)
As believers, our preparation for Christ’s return involves not only acceptance of Jesus Christ as our savior and genuine repentance of sin; but, also living a lifestyle of “repentance”—an altering of what we rely upon in life, of what we hope for, of what we are counting on for help, and of what we are counting on for salvation. We can rest in the knowledge that Jesus paid the price and died for us. His precious blood releases us from our “fears and sins”.
Celebrate Christmas by preparing the way for His return. Rejoice in the fact that Jesus is the risen Christ. We sing “Come, O Long-expected Jesus” in anticipation of the return of our Lord, Jesus. Share this good news with those around you—tell the world that He lives and is coming again, bringing a message of hope, love, and justice!
Prayer: We bring you more than just our song, we bring a heart of worship, for it’s all about You, Jesus. Show us how to live a life of repentance, pleasing to You. Guide us in the paths of righteousness for Your name’s sake. Make us a light unto an unsaved world and use us as living witnesses to those individuals in our sphere of influence. Thank you, Lord, that your purposes are always accomplished. Amen.
