‘Advent’ derives from the Latin word that means ‘coming.’ On the four Sundays before Christmas, many celebrate the Advent season by focusing on the coming of the One announced by angels:
“Do not be afraid. I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all people. Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; He is Christ the Lord. This will be a sign to you: You will find a Baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger.” (Luke 2:10-12)
While many prophecies pointed to the Messiah, no one knew exactly how God’s plan would transpire. Luke wrote about two old people who waited with beautiful expectation. Simeon held the Baby, blessed the family, and declared his life on earth complete after meeting little Jesus. Eighty-four-year-old Anna had constantly prayed and fasted in the temple while waiting for the promised One. When she witnessed His coming, she praised God and told others the good news. (See Luke 2:25-38)
While many prophecies point to Jesus’ return, no one knows exactly how God’s plan will transpire. Are there ‘Simeons’ or ‘Annas’ on earth today waiting with beautiful expectation?
Paul not only writes that the Holy Spirit creates such desire in us, but he shares that, indeed, all creation longs for the Day:
We know the whole creation has been groaning as in the pains of childbirth right up to the present time. Not only so, but we ourselves, who have the firstfruits of the Spirit groan inwardly as we wait eagerly for our adoption as sons, the redemption of our bodies. For in this hope we were saved. (Romans 8:22-24)
The first Advent is history; the second is closer than ever.
“For the grace of God that brings salvation has appeared to all men. It teaches us to say ‘No’ to ungodliness and worldly passions, and to live self-controlled, upright and godly lives in this present age, while we wait for the blessed Hope – the glorious appearing of our great God and Savior, Jesus Christ, who gave Himself for us to redeem us from all wickedness and to purify for Himself a people that are His very own, eager to do what is good.” Titus 2:11-14