Pastor Shane Krause

Imminent Arrival— Do you know the feeling when someone important is about to arrive? It’s a mix of anticipation, excitement, and nervousness. Did you prepare well? Will they be glad to see you? When will they arrive—and will there be surprises?
In the weeks before Christmas, we feel that same anticipation as we await Jesus. As we celebrate his birth, we remember that he could return at any moment, and so we prepare to meet him by hearing his Word and receiving the sacraments he has given us. With that awareness, we feel again the excitement of an imminent arrival.
 
Imminent Arrival of the King—A king’s arrival is always significant, and our reaction depends on our relationship with him. If we expect judgment, we fear it; if we expect approval, we welcome it. Either way, his coming matters. But what if we learned his arrival would be humble and familiar?
Advent begins the Church Year by taking us to the end—watching King Jesus ride into Jerusalem on a donkey, fully aware he will die before the week is over. Palm Sunday encapsulates his entire mission, showing that the King of the universe was willing to humble himself and endure anything for our salvation. That is why he came, and why we anticipate his imminent arrival not with worry, but with joy.
 
Service Theme: Imminent Arrival of the King