In a text about the signs of Christ’s return, Sarah Stenson teaches us this week that Christians have always looked for the signs that Jesus is about to return. Even Martin Luther listed the events happening in Germany in a sermon about this text!

But amidst the destruction, chaos, and fear listed here, there is an incredible promise. Christians who have received Jesus’ word of promise do not have to be afraid: Jesus is coming again, just as he promised he would. 

All of creation will pass away, but God’s word will not. In a direct echo of Genesis 1, God’s word existed before creation and it’ll exist after creation is destroyed.

As you’ll hear, Advent isn’t a season of waiting. It’s a season of delivering an incredible promise. Jesus came and delivered his judgment on us: sinner. But he is merciful and delivered his promise in our sin’s place. 

ADVENT PLANNING GUIDE 

Luther House of Study is pleased to announce a brand new Advent Planning Guide! Courtesy of Pastor Mark Anderson, this guide contains Advent weekly planning outlines, Bible studies, activities, liturgies, and hymns. Download the guide at lutherhouseofstudy.org/resources.

COURSES 

Do you like what you learn in the conversations on Scripture First? Luther House of Study has numerous interactive courses available for free on subjects ranging from the Lutheran Catechism to core Christian beliefs. Visit lutherhouseofstudy.org to see their available courses, create an account to track your progress, and dive deeper into your learning. 

SING TO THE LORD 

Martin Luther said, "Next to the word of God, the art of music is the greatest treasure in the world." To understand the importance of hymnody in the Lutheran church, Lars Olson and Mason Van Essen sit down with Zachary Brockhoff to discuss the lectionary's hymns, their meaning and history, and how the music preaches the Gospel. 

• 🎙️ Apple Podcasts: https://apple.co/3IjGmMa
• 🎧 Spotify: https://spoti.fi/3VHikh3
• 💻 Luther House of Study's website: http://bit.ly/SingtotheLord

GOSPEL 

Luke 21:25-36

25. “There will be signs in the sun, the moon, and the stars, and on the earth distress among nations confused by the roaring of the sea and the waves. 26. People will faint from fear and foreboding of what is coming upon the world, for the powers of the heavens will be shaken. 27. Then they will see ‘the Son of Man coming in a cloud’ with power and great glory. 28. Now when these things begin to take place, stand up and raise your heads, because your redemption is drawing near.” 29. Then he told them a parable: “Look at the fig tree and all the trees; 30. As soon as they sprout leaves you can see for yourselves and know that summer is already near. 31. So also, when you see these things taking place, you know that the kingdom of God is near. 32. Truly I tell you, this generation will not pass away until all things have taken place. 33. Heaven and earth will pass away, but my words will not pass away. 34. “Be on guard so that your hearts are not weighed down with dissipation and drunkenness and the worries of this life, and that day catch you unexpectedly, like a trap. 35. For it will come upon all who live on the face of the whole earth. 36. Be alert at all times, praying that you may have the strength to escape all these things that will take place, and to stand before the Son of Man.”

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