Throwback Thursday: GOD IS CALLING (Advent 2017)

2 Thessalonians 2:14; Matthew 28:18-20; Mark 16:15-16; 1 Corinthians 15:58

“And I heard a loud voice from the throne saying, “Look! God’s dwelling place is now among the people, and he will dwell with them. They will be his people, and God Himself will be with them and be their God.” Revelation 21:3

I was recently visiting a congregation in Dallas. I saw listed on the bulletin that we would be singing a hymn I had never heard before. Honestly, when this happens I am concentrating on trying to figure out the tune so much that I don’t really pay attention to the words.  However, this time was different.

I opened the Lutheran Hymnal to #833, “Listen, God is calling”. Since I hadn’t heard it before, I decided to just listen to the first verse before I jumped in. That didn’t happen, though. I was so struck by the words of the refrain that all I wanted to do was listen.  Those words have been with me ever since and I think they are perfect for the Advent season:

“Listen, listen, God is calling

Through the Word inviting,

Offering forgiveness, comfort and joy.”

May we remember to listen to His Word and to remember that we have received the forgiveness, comfort and joy that only Jesus can offer.

 “So faith comes from hearing, and hearing through the word of Christ.”