‘But about that day or hour no one knows, neither the angels in heaven, nor the Son, but only the Father. Mark 13:32
Advent anticipates and prepares for the arrival of Christ as a babe in a manger in Bethlehem, historically as time to prepare for baptism – his arrival in our hearts, and then we look forward to his return to establish the kingdom of heaven on earth and make life right. Some think that will be an end times scenario but for sure we will all walk through death and meet our creator. Mark says no one, regardless of what the TV and authors and evangelists tell you, knows just when “that day” will come.
Can you imagine what life would be like if we knew. “End time sales” starting months if not years ahead would clog our media. If we knew what day we were going to die for sure that would make us as nervous as setting our wedding date. If we knew we were going to die by accident rather than cancer or in our sleep, letters of protest would clog heavenly mailboxes. Studies could be done to see if all ethnicities died at the same rate or if ??? These are all silly mental rabbit holes we could slide down but the truth is that we don’t know when we will be called upon to meet the Lord.
Not knowing when “that day” will come gives me hope. I think it might be like looking at that present under the tree and hoping it is the special thing I wanted. It seldom is but the not knowing adds anticipation to the future. The difference is that for those who build relationship with God, do not need to fear being disappointed and do not need to fear death. Perhaps it would be like opening a gift and receiving a beautifully needlepointed “Well done!” Nobody knows “that day” but we know God fulfills his promises and if he cares enough to incarnate at Christmas, die at Good Friday, and resurrect on Easter, “that day” need not be feared. Today may not be “that day” but Lord, help us to live “this day” faithfully serving you. Blessings.
On the Way to Wonder 