Hope For All Times - Ever heard the term “doomscrolling?” What does it mean? Doomscrolling is when you scroll through your computer or phone and focus on sad or negative news stories or social media posts. One reason we may doomscroll is because we’re trying to protect ourselves from the dangers around us. When the world is out of control it may give us the feeling that we have some control left if we know the terrible state of affairs. Doomscrolling can become addictive and adverse to our mental and spiritual health. We assume getting information about risks and then protecting ourselves or preparing for the “what if” will keep us safe, but many end up feeling worse, experiencing anxiety, anger, sadness, and uncertainty.
Why speak of anxiety during the first week of Advent when it is much more pleasant to think about is Christmas trees and colorful cookies. But our sermon reading today is quoting the Christ child himself, all grown up, of course here in Luke, and he’s talking about his return and the state of the world at his return. Let’s read Luke 21:25-36 (NRSVUE).
Romans 8:24-25 ~ For in this hope we were saved. Now hope that is seen is not hope. For who hopes for what he sees? But if we hope for what we do not see, we wait for it with patience. 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 does not catch you unexpectedly, 35 like a trap. 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.”
Grace and Peace,
Steve Schantz
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