Advent Devotional by Amy Duncan
Philippians 1:3-11
“I pray that your love will overflow more and more, and that you will keep on growing in knowledge and understanding. For I want you to understand what really matters, so that you may live pure and blameless lives until the day of Christ’s return.” (Philippians 1:9-10 NLT)
In July of 2014, a small group of family and friends gathered in preparation to welcome home our son, Stewart, after his ten months spent studying in Oxford, England. We made signs and handed out American flags. We had all the decorations and party food fit for a true celebration. I had been anticipating this happy day for weeks. Shortly before time for us to leave for the airport, Stewart called to let us know that his plane was delayed, and in fact, he would have to spend the night in Philadelphia and fly home the next morning. We were devastated! Though we were thankful he was healthy and safe, after so long an absence the delay was frustrating and so disappointing.
Waiting is never easy, and delays can mar a happy anticipation or add a swirl of negative emotions to an anxious time. During Advent, our focus is to prepare our hearts for the joyous celebration of Christ’s birth and the eager anticipation of his return. But sometimes we feel we are waiting on Jesus in less than happy circumstances. We are waiting for news that the treatment worked, that the job came through, that the relationship will be restored, that the money will be there. We hope for a happy scene, and we are sad when we experience delay.
Paul’s letter to the Philippians reminds us that Christ is with us always–not just in future tense but now. Paul urges us to walk in love with one another and to grow in our faith so that though we may not always understand God’s timing, we will live in the assurance of his love for us and his presence in our lives through the Holy Spirit.
Even though Stewart’s arrival was delayed, we went ahead with the party! We celebrated the love of family and friends and thanked God for their presence in our lives. Paul shows us that God is with us in the waiting. “Every time I think of you, I give thanks to my God.” Philippians 1:3
Amy Duncan