“The Word became flesh and blood, and moved into the neighborhood.” (John 1:14 The Message)
What does one say at the end of a year like 2020? As I began to ponder this Curry I had the opportunity to preach on the first Sunday of Advent. I chose Luke 21:25-28 as my passage: “And there will be signs in sun and moon and stars, and on the earth distress of nations in perplexity because of the roaring of the sea and the waves, people fainting with fear and with foreboding of what is coming on the world. For the powers of the heavens will be shaken. And then they will see the Son of Man coming in a cloud with power and great glory. Now when these things begin to take place, straighten up and raise your heads, because your redemption is drawing near.” The sermon was entitled “When Will God Come?” It centered on the sure and certain hope we have that God always comes when the time is right.
On my way home my wife and I were listening to Christmas music. As “Santa Claus is Coming to Town” began she got theological and, reflecting on the sermon, said “You should turn this into a religious song.” I chuckled – until I couldn’t get it out of my head. So several days later, I made an attempt. I hope it will brighten your day and energize your preparation for the celebration of Christ’s birth.
“Jesus Christ is Coming on Down
(There’s Grace for You to Take)”
You better watch out, You better not cry
You better not pout I’m telling you why
Jesus Christ is coming on down
He’s making a list, Not checking it twice,
Already knows who’s naughty or nice.
Jesus Christ is coming on down
He’s with you when you’re sleeping
And when you’re awake –
Whether you’ve been bad or good
There is grace for you to take
You better watch out, You better not cry
You better not pout, I’m telling you why
Jesus Christ is coming on down
He’s come once before, and He’ll come again
With hope for today and also for then,
Jesus Christ is coming on down
He’ll bring peace to those who are of good will
Promising that their hearts He will fill
Jesus Christ is coming on down
Then those who will receive Him will have a jubilee
He’s gonna’ fill their hearts with love
And with joy for all to see.
So! You better watch out, you better not cry
You better not pout, I’m telling you why
Jesus Christ is coming on down
Curry Pikkaart, © 2020