Thou Long Expected Jesus

A friend once compared the months of waiting I experienced when hoping to become a mother to the waiting so many before me experienced in waiting for a Messiah. I'm not sure the idea of waiting for a Savior to come was ever so real to me before that moment. As a woman who had always longed to be someone's "Mommy," it seemed like the months of waiting were never-ending. But when I think about the generations of waiting for a Messiah to come, I know my waiting pales in comparison. It brings to mind the lyrics, "Come, thou long expected Jesus...dear desire of every nation, joy of every longing heart."

Prophets foresaw the coming of Jesus generations before His birth. Isaiah prophesied of this "Immanuel" or "God with Us." Micah announced that He would be born in Bethlehem. In Numbers we even see that a star will come forth at His birth. The details are so incredibly specific it's almost hard to believe, but isn't that the God we know? A God of details. A personal God, uniquely loving each of us. A long expected Savior, coming as no one expected, in spite of prophecies. A baby, vulnerable and innocent, yet somehow our Salvation, the Strength of Israel and the Desire of every nation. Born to release us from our sins and fears. Born to bring us consolation, rest, and hope. Born to reign in us forever.

Christmas is my favorite time of year, but not just because of all the warm, twinkling lights and hearts that tend to be kinder. The anticipation of awaiting Jesus' birth is beautiful. So many were so faithful, knowing and trusting that God would not disappoint. We have the treasure of a Messiah who has already come. He came for us, and He fulfilled His earthly purpose long before we were around. I would have loved to walk the earth alongside my King, but the privilege of being able to look back and see the completion of my salvation is a gift unique to those of us on this side of the Cross. We can look forward to His second coming - a vastly different entrance, bringing with it more fulfillment and a level of completion inexplicable in our human terms. As we look to the glory and majesty of that day, let's not forget the simplicity and beauty of that first Noel...the Christmas to surpass all others. The baby born a child and yet a King. The long expected Savior of the world. Find the culmination of things hoped for in His humble arrival.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NOxJFN-9_vs