G. Archer Frierson
Austin Seminary Board of Trustees
• CLICK HERE for a complete, online copy of this season's devotionals.
• CLICK HERE to learn how you can support the mission of Austin Seminary
Advent Devotional for December 20
• Luke 1:26-38
For over a century, Rome had ravished the house of Jacob with its tyranny: economic violence against the poor, cruelty through political oppression, manipulations of Jerusalem’s priestly politics, and mockery of the God of Israel. In every way, the people cried, “How long until you save us, Lord?!” Through Gabriel, Mary, and Jesus, God answered, “Now!”
Gabriel comes to Mary, announcing the good news that the Kingdom of God is coming though her in a son to be named Jesus. Mary is the conduit through which the heavenly promise is fulfilled. Reclaiming David’s throne, Jesus is the antithesis of current earthly rulers. Freeing the captives, redistributing wealth to end poverty and unfairness, and humbling the powerful who neglect and steal from others, Jesus precipitates the good news. With him, a new hope is born and great expectations are delivered. Everyone will receive and participate in God’s justice. They will have dignity and access to abundance in this life.
Today, we bring the hopes and expectations of the gospel. Living in a drastically different political and economic reality as the poor in Galilee, we are the body of Christ called to answer the cry “how long?” with “now!” By the grace of Mary’s baby, love of God, and power of the Holy Spirit, we are chosen as the products and agents of God’s justice and righteousness. Freed, we liberate captives incarcerated in prisons of injustice. Safe, we welcome the tired, the poor, and the huddled masses looking for safe shores. Fed, we fight for policies to have nutritious foods afforded by everyone. Privileged, we amplify the voices of the ignored. Blessed, we distribute our bounty among communities in need. Gifted with the hopes and expectations of the good news, we are the Kingdom through whom Jesus reigns.
Reverend Bridgett A. Green
Instructor in New Testament
For the glory of God and to proclaim the gospel of Jesus Christ, Austin Presbyterian Theological Seminary is a seminary in the Presbyterian-Reformed tradition whose mission is to educate and equip individuals for the ordained Christian ministry and other forms of Christian service and leadership; to employ its resources in the service of the church; to promote and engage in critical theological thought and research; and to be a winsome and exemplary community of God's people.We hope that you are preparing the way for the Lord in your life as you read these meditations and prayers. And, we hope this Advent season is a meaningful one for you. Please know that Austin Seminary’s dedicated, diverse, and loving community of faith is not complete without you. Did you know?
• Students in our masters-degree programs receive up to 85% need-based tuition aid.
• Historically, more than 80% of our graduates are called to congregational ministry.
• Our students come from more than a dozen denominations.
• Our alumni serve in ministry in forty-eight U.S. states as well as in twenty different countries across the world.
Your gift to Austin Seminary contributes to scholarships, housing, computer equipment, library materials, and other resources needed by seminarians as they fulfill their calls to Christian service and leadership.
Your support underwrites the finest theological faculty and an administration committed to upholding the highest standards possible with respect to the unique vocation of ministry.
Every gift is significant and is appreciated. They are put to work right away and make a real impact. Please send your gift today.
• CLICK HERE to learn how you can support the mission of Austin Seminary
No comments:
Post a Comment