Meditations on the Meaning of ChristmasShembull

Hope Unexpected

I find it particularly interesting to see how unexpected Jesus’ advent was. The Old Testament is filled with prophecies and descriptions of what the coming Messiah would be like, act like, and what his purpose was. For example, in the Gospel of Matthew, after he records Jesus healing the man with the withered hand in chapter twelve, Matthew quotes Isaiah’s description of what Israel’s hope would be like. Isaiah prophesies in verse 20, 

“…he will bring forth justice to the nations. He will not cry aloud or lift up his voice, or make it heard in the street; a bruised reed he will not break, and a faintly burning wick he will not quench; he will faithfully bring forth justice…” Isaiah 42:1-3

It seems pretty clear from Isaiah’s prophecy that Israel was hoping for a Messiah who would show characteristics of gentleness, meekness, and compassion. He would be one who would seek to care for the marginalized and the broken, yet accomplish his purpose without causing worldly upheaval. And yet, for many, the anticipation of who this Messiah would be was left largely unfulfilled. For others, like the Pharisees, the healing of the man with the withered hand left them plotting “how to destroy him.” What exactly were they hoping for?

The type of hope that Jesus brings is not primarily relief from worldly problems and issues. His advent was not anticipated throughout the ages to reconcile political parties or usher forward a particular agenda. Unless of course you consider that agenda to be the redemptive plan to save the world from their sin. This was the longing and hoping God’s people were waiting for—someone who would make the wrong right and who would welcome back God’s people into the presence of their Creator. This is why anticipating the advent of Christ fills us with such great hope each season, Jesus is God in the flesh, hope of the nations, who came down to rescue us.    

Reflect

• What are you hoping or expecting God to do in your heart this advent season?