Action in Waiting

This year, as part of our communal journey towards Christmas, we are going to share posts from various community membes about Advent each week. As we prepare for the first Sunday of Advent this weekend, here is an excerpt from a reflection called "Action in Waiting" by Christoph Friedrich Blumhardt in the book "Watch for the Light." (Find more about the book here.)

"It is Advent again. We call this time Advent because it reminds us of what comes from God for the creation of his kingdom on earth. We who are here have been led in a special way to keep what is coming on our hearts and to shape ourselves according to it. That which comes from God- that is what moves our hearts, not only in these days but at all times. That which is to come from God is the most important thing we have, in the past and in the present as well as in the future. It is only in God's coming that even the Bible itself has value to us, let alone all other things we call 'means of grace.' Unless what comes from God is a part of it, it remains like a dead seed and does not achieve what must be achieved if God's kingdom is to be.

There are many today who sigh to heaven, "Savior, come now!" But they are not sighing for the sake of God's kingdom. They cry out like this only when they are in trouble and want God to help them. And they don't know of any help that is more effective than to have a Savior come and put a quick end to their troubles.

When it comes to the things of God, however, we must not be concerned for what is ours, but only for what belongs to Christ. We should do this not merely for our own edification; we must become workers for God. This leads us to God's vineyard, a place where there is not a great deal of talk, but where everyone is intent on deeds.

This is what it means to prepare for Advent...It is remarkable that not only God, creator of heaven and earth, but also God's people must be a part of this plan. There needs to be men and women who give themselves up for God's kingdom and its justice."

What does it look like for us this year to enter into the vineyards of God and do the work of preparing for the kingdom? How can our December become one where we are intent on the deeds of God's coming reign?