The church seasons of the year – Advent, Christmas, Epiphany, Lent, Easter, and Pentecost – give our liturgical year a framework for us to use as we tell the story of the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus once again. We begin this journey not with birth, but with waiting and anticipation. During Advent, we revisit the message of John the Baptist telling us to prepare a way for the Lord, prophets foretelling the coming of a king, and the angel visiting Mary to reveal the importance of the child she is carrying. We also hear about the second coming of Jesus at the end of time. These stories evoke feelings of hope and possibility for the future – the not yet – that come with expectations of the coming of Jesus, whether we’re waiting for Christmas or the second coming of Christ.
But even as we wait for this child, we know that Jesus is already present now. As Lutherans, we believe that Christ is present in Word and Sacrament when we gather for worship. Jesus is Immanuel – Christ with us – each week when we hear the scriptures read and as we share the bread and wine. Christ is present with us in the here and now, but yet at the same time, we have not yet experienced the fullness of the glory of Christ. In other words, Christ is both now, and not yet.
This juxtaposition of Jesus being both here and not fully realized – the now, and not yet – is a part of the paradox that we live as Christians. There are other ways to apply this same idea. Perhaps you’ve experienced a kingdom moment – like a breathtaking view in nature or a gathering of very diverse people – that gives you a glimpse of what is to come. Or, perhaps you have gotten to know one of our recent confirmands and experienced his faith story. That faith is expressed now, but in time will grow if it is fed and nourished. In that way, faith is also both now and not yet.
Now and Not Yet is our theme in worship this Advent season. Look for ways that
this theme is highlighted; through a child leading in worship, a new connection, or even a renewed relationship. Pay attention to the ways that these things are real and meaningful in the moment and are filled with potential for what is to come at
the same time.
If you would like to hear about a topic to help demystify worship, please contact Andrea Baxter, abaxter@pzw.ff6.myftpupload.com.