Advent is a time of anticipation. We anticipate the coming of Jesus Christ by recalling His coming as an infant in Bethlehem; by experiencing His coming to us now in Word and Sacrament and prayer and Christian community; and we watch for His coming again at the end of time with the fulfillment of the Kingdom of God.
Advent might also a time of apprehension. The Apostles’ and Nicene Creeds remind us of the scriptural truth that Christ will not only “come again,” but will also “judge the living and the dead.” This text from Malachi suggests this judging will be as though the Messenger of the Lord will refine us from impurities and launder us from and unrighteousness.
Am I concerned about this judgment? Certainly. To be refined and laundered sounds painful – like having deep wounds irrigated so that they might heal. But I am not afraid – the healing does come. After the scrubbing and elbow grease, after the spit and polish, forgiveness cannot be far behind.
by Pastor Greg
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