I’m sure just about all of us have had the experience of going to an airport to pick someone up and waiting at the arrival gate. Although I’ve been in that situation numerous times, the most memorable was when our daughter Joanna was returning from her semester spent in Vienna, Austria. As Kim and I stood by the arrival gate, we did so anticipating that any moment Joanna would come through the gate, pulling her luggage and carrying her viola. After months of not seeing her (except a few times via Facetime), our adrenaline was pumping as the excitement began to build. Then, after what felt like an eternity of waiting, we spotted her coming towards us. Within a few moments all of our anticipation had become a reality. Joanna was home. (See picture) Of course, lots of hugs were in order!
This season into which we have now entered is called, “Advent.” The word means, “the arrival.” It’s meant to be a season within the year during which we as Christians not only prepare for the celebration of Christmas Day, but relive something of the anticipation God’s people throughout history felt as they read the promises of the coming their Messiah—i.e., the birth of Jesus Christ. It’s as if we are standing with them at the arrival gate as we recall the promises of God for a Savior to be born.
One of those promises is found in the prophet Isaiah’s words when he wrote, “For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders. And he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. Of the greatness of his government and peace there will be no end.” (Isaiah 9:6-7a – NIV) Can you imagine the anticipation that filled the hearts of the people who first read those words?
Not only, however, is this a season for us to think back, but as well as time to look forward, as we allow the anticipation of Jesus’ second arrival to fill our hearts. It’s as if today we are standing at the arrival gate, saying with followers of Jesus throughout the centuries, “Come, Lord Jesus! Come!” as we long for his return.
I want to encourage you today to allow this season to be for you so much more than just a time of preparing for Christmas Day. May you sense the anticipation of standing at an arrival gate as you remember both the promises of God for our Savior’s first and second arrivals. And, may that anticipation cause you to worship him and live for him filled with joy, expectation, and hope.
Have a great day!
- Pastor Tim Harris
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