FOREVER

“Your house and your kingdom shall be made sure forever before me; your throne shall be established forever.” 2 Samuel 7:16

Over the last 20 years of my journey I have become increasing thankful for my good friend, Cliff. We enjoy taking in an occasional movie together. Two of his all time favorites are Field of Dreams and The Wizard of Oz: forever films. Each time we select a new show, I hope that our choice will be the next cinematic masterpiece; one with greatness which will truly stand the test of time. Inside the theater, as each trailer concludes, he whispers a number to me, rating the preview. I have come to enjoy playing along, yet we rarely rate a coming attraction as a ten, lacking anticipation that a new forever film is coming to a theater near us.

The lessons for Advent IV give previews of a significant coming attraction. 2 Samuel records the Lord’s promise to make a great name of David, ‘like the great names of the earth.’ The psalmist writing Psalm 89 comments on that oath, making repeated use of the word ‘forever,’ Gabriel declares hope to Mary in Luke 1 that Jesus Christ will be given David’s throne to reign ‘forever’: “of his kingdom there will be no end.” Paul, in his conclusion of Romans, reviews the story by stating that a mystery kept secret for long ages has been revealed. ‘Forever’ is the final word of his letter.

Contemporary stories can disappoint. As humans on a quest, we seek permanence, constancy, quality and greatness in our lives. In spite of our anticipation, our world too often does not deliver. Yet Scripture reminds us that gifts from God – love, faithfulness, strength, rest, protection - are indeed forever, Our Advent story powerfully reveals that ‘nothing will be impossible with God.’ It points us forward, with hope and anticipation of the greatness surrounding the gift of Christmas Day, Jesus Christ. Understanding that His life, presence and provisions are forever strengthens our journey, as we live through festival days, but more importantly the ordinary days which follow.