The Lord Jesus arrived with gifts. At Christmas, we remember how he came in the flesh, born of Mary, laid in a manger, true God and true man. He brought us gifts of salvation and fulfillment. His first coming secured our redemption once for all.

The Lord Jesus arrives with gifts every time we gather for worship. Through his Word and sacraments, he is present with his gifts of grace today. In the gospel preached, he speaks forgiveness into our ears. In Baptism, he gives us a new identity, claiming us as his own. In the Lord’s Supper, he moves us to repentance and faith, giving his true body and blood for the forgiveness of our sins.
 
And he will arrive again with gifts. The same Jesus who ascended will return in glory with his eternal gifts for all who believe in him. On that day, faith will become sight, and every promise will be fulfilled. For believers, this is not a day of fear but of joy, for our Savior arrives to take us home.

So we live between his arrivals, remembering his birth, receiving his grace, and waiting with confidence. We pray with joy, “Lord Jesus, bring your gifts!”
 
Our worship in the season of Advent follows this path.

Lord Jesus, Bring Your Gifts
 
November 29th - First Sunday in Advent: Salvation
December 6th - Second Sunday in Advent: Readiness 
December 13th - Third Sunday in Advent: New Identity
December 20th - Fourth Sunday in Advent: Fulfillment