Advent: The Good News of ChristmasSample

Elpis: hope, faith, to anticipate

The Jewish people in the time of Jesus were constantly in a state of expectation, looking for the Messiah. When they encountered John the Baptist, they wondered if he might be “the one,” the long-awaited deliverer that would set them free. John immediately told them he was there to prepare the way for the true Messiah. He encouraged their EXPECTATION...

The Greek word for expectation used in Luke is “Elpis,” which translates to hope, faith, and anticipation. John the Baptist’s presence heightened the “Elpis” of Jesus’ arrival. They were anticipating… but were they really ready?

Though He was with them physically, the majority, although expecting and looking for the Messiah, missed Him completely. In fact, they denied Him. They fought against Him because He didn’t fit their idea of a savior. Were they expecting the wrong thing? Had they envisioned an idol made in their image?

I pray that this Advent season, we find Jesus, the Messiah. As we sing, “Come thou long-expected Jesus,” don’t miss Him moving among us, changing us, and fulfilling His purpose in our lives. Wonderful, Savior, Deliverer, Redeemer, Mighty King of our lives!

Expect, hope, and anticipate for Jesus to come to us today and every day, but especially during this Advent season. Expect Him to come when hearts are open to something new. Expect Him to enter into the darkness and bring light. Expect Him to break down prison doors and bring freedom in mighty ways. Come thou long-expected Jesus-COME!

Prayer:
Thank You, Lord, that You do come! Thank You that when we call You hear us and come to us. I pray that as we wait expectantly this Christmas for You, we do not miss where You’re moving and where You’re directing us to move. Lord, may we see You this Christmas! In Jesus’ Name, Amen.