HE’S COMING

The world had no idea what it was in for when Jesus came to earth for the first time, even though they knew what they were anticipating. The prophet Isaiah’s prophetic buildup, as part of today’s Scripture, set great expectations within the hearts of the people who awaited this mighty Messiah. He would be magnificent in stature and power. He would level every enemy and injustice with the snap of his fingers. The people would be liberated from their Roman oppressors.

Their hopes for a Savior from their troubles were soon dashed when they heard of the great coming king being born as an infant, not a full grown man riding in on a glorious steed and wielding a sword. They had been disappointed by the reality that Christ’s coming was not to form a physical kingdom, but a spiritual one.

We all experience disappointments in life, so I can relate to what the people of that time must have felt when there would be no rescue from the clutches of a dictatorship that had enslaved them. Instead, it was a time in which God, their Creator, was bringing someone to save them from their spiritual depravity. Unfortunately, their eyes were not open to see that.

However, praise be to God, there is a future kingdom that will bring everlasting peace to those who have openly received Jesus as their Lord and Savior. Those who truly follow the ways and commands of the Lord - who came down in the flesh to walk among his people and save them from sin and who will come again to rule and reign.

It’s easy to lose sight of what’s to come when things are so difficult in the here and now. May we never take our eyes off the one who is coming again. Let us stay true to our Savior and continue to have faith in his faithfulness as we determine to trust and obey the returning King.

So, during this Christmas season may we, as salt and light, love those who don’t yet know the King of kings and Lord of lords whom we follow. That we would share the glorious truth we hold on to as an anchor in this fallen world - he is coming again.

Heavenly Father, what delight it is to know that even though Christ came as a babe and died as a man, he rose from the dead and he is coming back soon. I can’t wait! Keep my eyes focused on you, especially in the challenging times that bring heartache and pain. Thank you, King Jesus, that you are coming soon! Amen!

Throughout This Day: Take a spiritual inventory of where you are in terms of your faith in the faithfulness of Jesus Christ. Are you weary in your waiting for him to return or excited as you keep your gaze upon him and share him with others? Keep the faith and hold on to your anchor who will bring you through every life storm, into his future kingdom.