The King Is ComingShembull

Wait

Most of us have heard it many times. We know the story of how our Savior, Jesus, was born into this world, and gave us the ultimate hope and future. Our children might even have a starring role in the Nativity play, giving us the opportunity to memorize every word of the angel Gabriel’s message to Mary right along with them.

But have we heard the story so often that we take it for granted?

For centuries, the Israelites longed for the Messiah to come into the world and deliver them. They had no idea when it would happen. They lacked the advantage of knowing the who, what, and when, of his birth. We do know…and it gives us the best reason ever to celebrate.

Yet it’s in thinking of the future that we step onto common ground with the Israelites. Jesus is proof that God keeps his promises and acts on our behalf, but the season of Advent reminds us there is more. God is not done yet. Advent means “coming”.

Christ fulfilled his role as Savior, but he also made a promise to return to his people—this next time—in such power and authority that he creates a new heaven and new earth. He is coming back. Would you be okay with it happening…now?

REFLECT

Think about what you might be taking for granted this Christmas season.

RESPOND

• List some giants of the faith who had to wait a long time to see a promise fulfilled. Compare how their attitudes to waiting affected the results.
• In what small ways could you alter your attitude about waiting…shifting from impatient to expectant?