2022 Worship Guide

Page 10 2022 Worship Guide LINCOLN DAILY NEWS December 1, 2022 their unique, covenant status with God for dalliances with lesser “gods.” If God had answered Isaiah’s prayer even the ones who had survived the horrors of Babylon would have been swept away. And there’s the rub. His presence certainly means hope for the some, but there’s another side of hope. Old Testament stories reveal that when God shows up you can expect both cheers and tears. When God comes down, Abraham’s nephew Lot is spared, but Sodom is burned to a crisp. Israelite slaves go free, but Egypt is devastated by plague after plague. Noah gets plans for a big boat, but the rest of the rebellious world is literally left to go under. When you ask God to make an appearance, be careful what you pray for! Centuries beyond Isaiah, the descendants of the exiles were re-established in their land, even though they were under the boot of a new super-power (Rome). The hearts of the devout cried out for a redeemer, one promised by God who would rule the world from the throne of David forever. They longed to see the day of the Lord come, the day the skies would be ripped open, and God revealed to everyone. Well, those prayers were ultimately heard. One seemingly ordinary night, God did split the heavens. Otherworldly warriors poured through the rift and, to the relieved amazement of a few terrified herdsmen, began singing God’s praises and proceeded to inform them that Christ, the King of Kings, was born in the sleepy suburb of Bethlehem! We hail His arrival as the first Advent. He grew. He lived. He died violently at the hands of people a lot like us. He rose victoriously to life once again and returned to His Father’s abode in order to send His Spirit to any heart that will prepare Him room. All these centuries later, the faithful are once more crying out to the Lord. “O that you would rend the heavens and come down!” He will. He promised. But when He does, when the final Advent occurs, it won’t be a joyful event for everyone. His people will welcome Him and celebrate, but those who have viciously hated Him, willfully denied Him, or simply ignored Him will know nothing but everlasting horror. On that day He cleaves the skies for the final time, which side of hope will find you when He comes down? Let me once again share the best possible news for you and for all: His grace is great! Christ was born to save! He’s ready to forgive you and make you brand new! As Scrooge observed, you haven’t missed it! This Christmas is just one more opportunity – maybe your best opportunity – to give heart and soul and voice to Jesus the King!