An Advent Reflection by Rt Rev Dr Andrew Rumsey, Bishop of Ramsbury.
Read
Luke 1:1-4 Since many have undertaken to set down an orderly account of the events that have been fulfilled among us, just as they were handed on to us by those who from the beginning were eyewitnesses and servants of the word, I too decided, after investigating everything carefully from the very first, to write an orderly account for you, most excellent Theophilus, so that you may know the truth concerning the things about which you have been instructed.
Reflect
Like a time machine, these verses transport us back to the first and freshest days of the Church. The good news of Jesus Christ began with the buzz of eyewitness report and it is these living words that Luke decides to set down carefully, so those who seek and love God might know the truth of it all.
The sense of expectation we feel at the start of his Gospel is the mood of Advent: arrival, anticipation – that nervous pause before a guest arrives at our door.
Pray
Gracious God, I am unready for so many things. But though my heart is unprepared, I am waiting and listening for your word. This Advent, please surprise and inspire me with the message of life, the message of Christ. For your name’s sake. Amen.
Act
Whatever you are doing today, take a moment to settle your mind and ask: ‘am I ready to receive Christ? Am I willing to hear his message, ever ancient and ever new? For, truly, the Lord is about to call.
-Rt Rev Dr Andrew Rumsey, Bishop of Ramsbury
You can read all of the Advent Reflections via the following link – Advent Reflections 2019.