Sometimes, it’s easy to lose sight of how big of a deal Jesus’ birth truly was. I mean sure, we understand its a big deal because of the Gospel, but on this side of the cross, we can miss out on the value of the waiting that had to take place in the hearts of those who came before the birth of Jesus, before the cross, before everything changed.
For many, “advent” means a countdown to Christmas. Whether we envision candy-filled Advent calendars or lights draped over houses with nativity scenes out front, Advent marks a happy season of celebrating. But the word “advent” comes from the Latin adventus, which is about a “coming” or an “arrival.”
Advent season isn’t just about celebrating the first coming of Jesus; it’s also about waiting for His second coming. While you and I missed the first coming of Christ, we now live in the waiting period for His future arrival.
When we consider God's promises to Israel, their waiting, and how many missed Jesus when He arrived –– we learn two truths about waiting:
- Waiting reveals what we truly hope in.
- How we wait can determine whether we’ll recognize God’s provision when it comes.
Here’s the truth: You can be surrounded by God’s promises and still miss His provision.
Israel proves that.
So, what do you do when God seems silent? How do you wait in a way that recognizes Jesus when He comes?