As a child, waiting for Christmas Day would feel like eternity. I’ll never forget the Christmas when I got a baby doll and a bicycle. I thought I was in heaven! And, it seemed that as soon as the day was over, I would already be looking forward to it coming around again next year. Then when I had children, watching them on Christmas morning brought back so many fond memories. And, now that I have gotten older, Christmas has a different meaning for me. In fact, it’s no longer the day itself that brings me so much joy. It is more in the ‘waiting,’ the anticipation, and in the ‘preparing’ that I find a peace and joy that is beyond understanding. It is something that I cannot explain…it just is.

In Isaiah 9:1-7, the prophet gives us some really ‘awesome’ news. However, I’m not sure this is news that a child would understand or even begin to comprehend. I believe this news can only be heard by those who have experienced life and know how hard life is to ‘actually live!’ The prophet says, “People who have walked in darkness have seen a great light, their burden will be lifted off them, and they will make the glorious way of the sea.” And again, the prophet prophecies the coming of our Lord Jesus: “For a child has been born for us, a son given to us; authority rests upon his shoulders…” (Isaiah 9:6).

We all will die one day. And, I believe on that day, there will be so much joy! But, now it is more about the waiting, the anticipation, and in the preparing for that day, that holds close to my heart. It causes me to question, reflect, and wonder if everything is ready for that day! Is my heart ready? Am I living today as the Lord would want me to? Is there something that I need to change?

Let us pray…Gracious God, the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ was a prophecy way before He came to live among us. Again, we have the hope of the Lord returning. You have promised that we will see Him. Help us to be ready – to anticipate and prepare for His coming. We love you so much. Amen.