The First Sunday of Advent

   Anticipation; waiting.  This is what Advent is all about.  Waiting for the birth of our Lord.

   Anyone who goes into the toy department of any store can see the anticipation Christmas brings.  Children run from aisle to aisle showing Mom and Dad what they want, hoping Santa is listening.  Parents and Grandparents check the children’s wish list trying to be sure they get exactly what was asked for.

   We see the excitement of the children when the tree and decorations begin going up.  The joy in the eyes of the kids when the gifts begin showing up under the tree.  The happiness of the children is infectious bubbling over to everyone in the house.  What a happy time!

   The season of Advent, that time of waiting and anticipating Christmas has so many joys associated with it.  For the kids it is almost unbearable; they will be asking questions, shaking presents and maybe even trying to peek under the wrapping paper to see if they are really getting what they asked for.  It’s a shame that most parents aren’t awake on Christmas morning when the kids first see the tree with everything Santa has left.  I’m sure they are glowing with joy and happiness.

   The Israelites lived in anticipation of the first Christmas for many years.  Not for earthly gifts but for the coming Messiah.  Through slavery in Egypt, the journey to the promised land; from the glory of David and Solomon’s kingdoms to the exile in Babylon and return to Jerusalem.  They longed to see the day when Isaiah’s prophecy would come, “Behold, a virgin shall conceive and bear a son, and shall call his name Immanuel.” (Is 7:14).  Yet when the prophecy was fulfilled most refused to accept it.

   There is much excitement and anticipation over the arrival of Santa Claus and gifts but how many share such excitement over the greatest gift of all?  On the first Christmas we received the gift of a Savior who would forgive our sins.  Imagine the excitement if Jesus were to come to your church for services on Christmas day.  There would be lines for miles.  But He is there!  Not only on Christmas but every day of the year.  Go to Him, especially during this glorious season and thank Him for the greatest gift ever received.  Experience the happiness and promise of the birth of our Lord.  Anticipate His coming with joy and worship.