Embracing Advent: Hold on to HOPESample

HOPE IN GOD’S PROMISES

When we read the Christmas story, our focus is primarily on the account of Jesus’ birth as it is told in the New Testament (particularly in the gospels of Matthew and Luke). We marvel at the faith and obedience of Joseph and Mary as they are told that Jesus will be born, and then have the joy of experiencing his miraculous arrival nine months later.

Yet, we need to remember that these promises were not first made to Jesus’ parents. The promise of Jesus’ birth was initially made hundreds of years before, as foretold in Isaiah (9:2, 6-7).

Jesus Christ is the fulfillment of a promise — God’s promise to send a Messiah to save His people. Those walking in darkness had been waiting for Christ’s light to come into the world for generations. There were many who were not able to see God’s promise fulfilled in their lifetimes… yet it did come to pass.

Sometimes, we are discouraged when we do not see our short-term hopes fulfilled. Whether it be for a job, a relationship, or even a Christmas gift — hope’s anticipation can quickly turn to disappointment.

HOPE deferred makes the heart sick,

but a longing fulfilled is a tree of life.

– Proverbs 13:12 (NIV)

Life sometimes defers our hopes and plans, which leaves us aching. However, the hope and life that God promises for our future — in His timing — for restoration (Acts 3:21)… for justice (Isaiah 30:18)… for no more tears (Revelation 21:4)… can be trusted. 

And the hope that He offers us for today — that He will be with us always (Matthew 28:20)… that He carries us (Isaiah 46:4)… that He offers us freedom (John 8:36)… can be trusted.

Jesus has fulfilled, is fulfilling, and will fulfill all of God’s promises.

For all of God’s promises have been fulfilled in Christ with a resounding “Yes!”

And through Christ, our “Amen” (which means “Yes”) ascends to God for his glory.

– 2 Corinthians 1:20 (NLT)

We may not have the privilege of seeing all of God’s promises fulfilled in our lifetime (though we give Him great praise when we do!) but know this… The promises that God has made us, He will keep. And this is why we have HOPE.

This Christmas, may we hold on to the HOPE that has already been fulfilled in Christ, the hope that He offers us today, and the hope He promises for our future and let us say, “Amen!”