Prepare ye the way of the Lord!

[gpmj12]

Did you know that in the middle ages, Advent was more focused on preparing for the second coming of Christ, than as a preparation for the nativity. It was a proto eschatological celebration both sombre and joyful.

My personal belief is that we are a Church now willing Him back to us desperately as per His promise.

It’s not everyones cup of tea but this theme from the 70’s musical Godspell does capture a sense of the anticipation.

Fairfield County Childrens Choir

 

[po18guy]

In a similar vein, I actually prefer to suffer more now and less then. The old car oil filter commercial comes to mind: “You can pay me now, or pay me later”, i.e. engine failure. I pray for the grace to suffer well, since suffering is unavoidable. Suffering is perhaps the only manner in which I am Christ-like.

 

[gpmj12]

As per Peter…

1 Pet 4 12 Beloved, do not be surprised at the fiery trial that has come upon you, as though something strange were happening to you. 13But rejoice that you share in the sufferings of Christ, so that you may be overjoyed at the revelation of His glory.