For in this hope we were saved. Now hope that is seen is not hope. For who hopes for what he sees? But if we hope for what we do not see, we wait for it with patience. (Romans 8:24-25)
When my dad remarried after my mother’s death, life changed completely. Everything was new — a new family, a new home, a new school, new friends, and even a new church. It was there that I first experienced the celebration of Advent in preparation for Christmas. The weekly lighting of candles, the reading of Old Testament prophecies, and the singing of O Come, O Come, Emmanuel all stirred in me a growing excitement for the holiday ahead.
Years later, I learned that I had only been celebrating half of Advent. My focus had been on the baby in the manger — Emmanuel, God with us — and the wonder of His coming to earth as a child. Yet, Advent means ‘coming’, not just Christ’s first coming but his coming again!
As we soon light the candles and remember Christ’s first coming, let us look forward with expectant hope to his return.
Prayer Prompt: Dear Lord, lead me today by the guidance of the Holy Spirit. Show me how to be your faithful servant, active about your work as I look forward to your return.
Song of the day: Jesus Is Coming Back — Jordan Feliz
