Advent: Hope in the Waiting by Wycliffe Bible Translatorsਨਮੂਨਾ

I’m Praising God and Proclaiming His Name!

Have you ever gone caroling, lifting your voice to celebrate Jesus’ birth? In a way, that echoes what happened the night Christ was born, when a host of angels appeared to the shepherds, proclaiming: “Glory to God in highest heaven, and peace on earth to those with whom God is pleased” (Luke 2:14, NLT).

Throughout Scripture, angels serve God by praising Him, obeying His commands and delivering His messages. In the Christmas story, they reassured Mary, Joseph and the shepherds, reminding them that God was with them. Their words didn’t remove the challenges these individuals faced, but the angels gave them hope and strength to trust God’s plan.

The story of Jesus’ birth is filled with angelic encounters that reveal God’s love and faithfulness. Gabriel announced John the Baptist’s birth to Zechariah, preparing the way for Jesus (Luke 1:11-17). He then appeared to Mary, telling her she would bear the Son of God. Though afraid, she responded in faith, praising God for His promises (Luke 1:26-31, 46-55).

An angel reassured Joseph in a dream, urging him to take Mary as his wife. Joseph chose trust over fear, stepping into God’s plan (Matthew 1:20-21). A host of angels then proclaimed Christ’s birth to shepherds, and they became the first to share about the Messiah’s birth (Luke 2:8-14). Each person’s encounter with the angels is a reminder that God works through ordinary people and does extraordinary things.

The angels’ proclamation really is good news for everyone: The gospel is for all people. Christmas proves God keeps His promises and will return to complete His work.

Until He comes back, He invites all people to find hope in Him in seasons of waiting and to share this hope with others. One way to do so is through Bible translation, which makes it possible for everyone to encounter Christ in a language that touches their heart. When people experience the story of Jesus’ birth in their language, it becomes real and life-changing.

We get the chance to be part of what God is doing around the world — through our prayers, action and advocacy — so others may know that Immanuel, God with us, has come. As we all celebrate Christ’s arrival this Advent and look forward to His return, let’s live like people who’ve been changed by this great news. May we respond with joy like the shepherds, trust God fully like Mary and Joseph, and praise God boldly like the angels. God is calling us all to be part of His global mission, so let’s be ready to go wherever He leads.

Reflection:

• Think back to a time when God encouraged you even amid uncertainty. How has Scripture brought you peace and reminded you of God’s presence?
• Like the angels, you’re called to bring the hope of Christ to others. Who in your life might need a reminder of God’s promises today?
• How can you create space for God’s voice in this season? Is there something you need to do — or not do — to better notice where He’s at work?
• As this Advent comes to a close, what next step can you take to be God’s messenger, sharing His love and Word with someone still waiting?

We hope this plan encouraged you! Journey with us to learn more about Bible translation and how Scripture is bringing faith and hope to communities around the world.

For over 80 years, Wycliffe Bible Translators has been connecting people to what God is doing around the world through His Church to bring His life-transforming Word to every man, woman and child.