Advent is a season of...
Illustration
Advent is a season of God's surprises! A pastor had a very close friend whom he invited to share in the pulpit one Sunday in Advent. He only told his congregation that his friend was coming to preach in Advent. The congregation was ready, the pews were filled, and there was an anticipation. The pastor's friend entered the sanctuary with the pastor. All the eyes were fixed upon him. He had long hair, a leather jacket, blue jeans with holes, and he wore tennis shoes that were a far cry from Nikes or Reeboks. The preacher of the day was introduced. He was not what the congregation expected. He did not fit their expectations. Many were completely turned off and many were in deep shock. The lectionary reading for the day came from the prophet Isaiah who foretold of one messenger who would prepare the way, a voice that would cry from the wilderness, one who would make the paths straight. The other reading dealt with a crazy man who appeared in the wilderness preaching a loud and challenging message concerning the repentance for the forgiveness of others. As this long-haired far-out preacher of the day began to speak, he captured the attention of the congregation. First he made them look at him because of his physical appearance, then he made them look at him because of the spiritual message that came from his presence. His message shook that church, caused them to go deeper, and made them consider their sins, their savior and their faith. No one will ever forget that second Sunday in Advent that year. Some think it was just the pastor's friend who awakened the congregation, others thought it was the prophet Isaiah, some thought John the Baptist, and then a few even say today, "I think it was the Lord." Advent is a season of God's surprises! -- Smith
