My mother’s Savior first came to her when she lay cuddled in her mother’s arms—baptized in the name of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. The pastor spoke as he poured the water from the baptismal font over her infant head. He traced the sign of the cross over her head and heart. “Come, Lord Jesus,” and Jesus came in the water and the Word to create new life within her and make her his own dear, redeemed child.

My mother’s Savior came many more times throughout her life of 92 years. There were times of trial and sorrow when he came and strengthened and helped her; times when fear and dismay became overwhelming. “Come, Lord Jesus,” and Jesus came in Word and sacrament to forgive, sustain, and comfort.

A week after Christmas, after an Advent season peppered with prayers of “Come, Lord Jesus,” Mom entered hospice care upon her return from the hospital to the nursing home. We prayed and celebrated the Christ Child’s coming on that first Christmas with eager expectation of Christ’s return to earth on the Last Day. Through tears and much prayer, we prayed he would come and take Mom home to heaven. And Jesus came to rescue and release. Advent prayers were answered.
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