Once He Came in Blessing: Joy Beyond Comparing

Saint Athanasius Lutheran Church

As we journey through Advent, we reflect on the incredible truth: Jesus came to redress our sins, not by punishing us, but by taking the punishment Himself. He brings hope and freedom, replacing our despair and bondage. Yet His work didn’t stop there. He still comes to us today, gently leading us as a Good Shepherd, feeding us not only with earthly bread but with the bread of life—His very Body and Blood. He sustains us with forgiveness, life, and salvation, preparing us for what’s ahead. And soon, He will come again in splendor, no longer hidden or lowly, but in glory. In that moment, joy beyond comparing awaits His faithful ones—a joy far greater than we can imagine. This is the promise of Advent: Christ who came, who comes now, and who will come again to bring us home. Until that day, our prayer remains the same: Come, Lord Jesus! Come now. Come soon. Come save.