Romans 13:11-14

“Instead, put on the Lord Jesus Christ, and make no provision for the flesh, to gratify its desires.” vs. 14

Today is Black Friday and we are being urged and encouraged to spend as though there is no tomorrow. Indeed it is implied that the well-being of our entire national economy depends on our profligate behavior, on our gratifying the desires of the flesh. It’s more than ironic then, that in just two days we’ll be lighting the first candle on our Advent wreaths and thinking about the importance of repentance and restraint as we prepare for the coming of the Lord. The juxtaposition of these days with their contrary themes is a vivid reminder of the everyday challenges faced by people of faith. To put it simply, how is possible for followers of Jesus to live in the world, but not of the world? Does that mean our purchases today should be limited to blue and pink candles for our wreaths? Or if we participate in the cultural orgy of spending, can we cancel that out with sincere repentance on Sunday? While those questions may seem silly, they do represent a real dilemma. With our culture’s fixation on excess how can we strike a balance with the scriptural admonitions to live simply and frugally? There are no easy answers and certainly no rules to follow, but certainly it’s a matter for meditation…and we’ll have plenty of time for that during Advent!

Thought for the Day: What do I need to do to get ready for Advent?