Refresh
A Recap from Sunday’s Sermon

Preaching Text: Luke 3:1-6

Advent is a penitential season, in which we have the opportunity to reflect on our need for a Savior.  John the Baptist tells us to prepare the way for the Lord’s coming.  Luke 3:6, tells us that “all flesh shall see the salvation of God.”  As is sometimes seen on car bumpers, “Jesus saves.”   But what is this salvation? 

In the prior chapter, a prophet named Simeon picked up the month-old baby Jesus and prayed, “my eyes have seen your salvation” (Luke 2:30).   Thus, in the simplest summary:

Jesus is our salvation and he is coming to us.

Salvation can be both a point in time and a process. We can be saved from sin and its consequences by repenting of sin and turning to Christ.  Salvation also has a complexity to it that includes our participation in 100% of the created order coming under the lordship of Jesus. 

Some people don’t want to be saved because of spiritual pride.  They don’t think their path is curvy and full of pot holes and obstacles (see v. 5). Others are self-satisfied with their current lives, lacking vision for anything better.  Still others don’t know they are lost, so they aren’t looking for a Savior.  For those who do want Jesus as Savior and Lord, and also want to be prepared for his return, they can welcome him now.

A relationship makes you ready.

The tools of developing this relationship are the classic disciplines of the Church.  These include prayer, worship, Scripture, service, fellowship and the like.  Prepare the Lord’s way now through these tools.  The Lord will meet you as you pursue him.

Taking It Home: The recommended Advent devotional has many of these discipleship tools.  Read the assigned passage for each day and pray.