Adventનમૂનો

Day 10: Already and Not Yet

Reflection:

Advent exists in tension: Christ has come—Christ will come again. We live in the in-between, before the definitive closure of the cosmic invasion. On the last day, there will be only one Ruler and only one Lord. On this day, death will have no more dominion. It is to this end that we wait, as Paul says, “in eager expectation.” Until then, the world remains in its fallen state. As Christians, we have the power of the Holy Spirit who helps us endure, even to the end (Matt. 24:13). This is the importance of seeing Advent in light of both Christmas and the end of creation. It means that our hope is secure in the God who has already come to us. We pin our hope on His death and resurrection. In this way, Christmas marks the confirmation of the future promise. Once again, we find ourselves pointing back and looking forward at the same time. Christ’s work is complete—“It is finished” (John 19:30). All of sin has been judged. All that remains is the assured consummation of the Kingdom of Heaven. For Paul, this means that while we may still be in suffering, none of it can be in vain, for we know the heavenly paradise which awaits us is secured. Now is the time of patient waiting and Advent is the perfect reminder.

Meditation:

In what ways do you experience both suffering and hope?