Deep Longings-Advent 2011

The holidays are a paradoxical time. No matter if we grew up in loving, or difficult homes, we all experience deep longings, especially over the next four weeks.

We long for the perfect gift, either to give, or to be given. We dream of sitting down to a delicious meal in an immaculately decorated house where we just tarry–unhurried in our conversation and togetherness with family and friends. Our hearts ache for the slower pace that days off of work can afford–when we can wake up late, sip coffee at leisure, and laugh together. The trouble is that even whenever any, or all of these longings are met, they are all too temporary. The gifts tarnish, break, or are replaced by newer ones. The meals end, decorations come down, dishes are dirtied and family and friends travel home. Alarm clocks once again cut through morning slumber and coffee leisure and we are back to the grind.

It’s not surprising that this season conjures up longings–it should. But these annual longings actually bespeak eternal ones. Recurring desire for human camaraderie highlights our need for Divine Presence. Wonder upon wonders is that God has granted these things. And it all began with God coming to earth as a baby.

Because He has come, joy is multiplied (see Isaiah 9:2-3), oppression flees (see Isaiah 9:4-5), and peace is given (see Isaiah 9:6-7). Over the next few weeks, as you consider giving and getting gifts, remember the One who was given for you and your salvation, which Jesus has won, and that cannot perish, spoil or fade (see 1 Peter 1:3-5). When we long for the slower pace and the perfect meal where the food and fellowship never ends, let’s remember that there is a day coming when we will enjoy it with Him and all those who are His (Luke 14:15; John 14:1-3; Revelation 19:9).

For now, we are left to long and long deeply for Immanuel–God with us.

Join us for worship on Sunday’s at 9:30 or 11:00 this Advent season as we long for Him together.