Psalm 119:81-88, Isaiah 34:1-2, 8-35:10, Revelation 6:1-17 - Lectionary for 12/18/11

Today's readings are Psalm 119:81-88, Isaiah 34:1-2,8-35:10, and Revelation 6:1-17. In Advent we are confronted with our need for Jesus to come as the Savior. We have a particularly clear example of that today as we see the inhabited world turned into a wasteland. This is a frightening thought. We like to think the world of natural beauty, peace, prosperity, and free-flowing milk and honey would be the signs of the Lord's coming. Yet we see the world under the curse of sin is coming apart at the seams. When our Lord comes, he comes to judge and condemn sin. This is no Sunday school picnic. It is judgment. What is an appropriate response? If we are in Christ we are new creations. We have no need to fear. As I have the opportunity to remind people on their deathbeds, those whom our Lord has called in Word and Sacrament are his own prize possession. Even if they die they are perfectly safe in the hands of their Savior. It is only a fearsome time for those who trust their own righteousness rather than God's righteousness, that of Jesus, given to all who believe. Come, Lord Jesus! Make us confident in you.