And He Shall Be Called

Every year, around the world, the church celebrates Advent. It’s the season to celebrate the coming of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ and anxiously await his return. It’s a unique moment where we both look back and forward. We can sympathize with the Jewish people who waited for generations to see the Messiah, as we have waited these 2000 years for his return.

What exactly are we waiting for? Isaiah chapter 9 tells us that we are waiting for the return of our “Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father and Prince of Peace.” This should bring us real hope and excitement about the future but it can also steady our hands and calm our hearts today. The truth is that Jesus is present with us now, not fully but meaningfully, and so when we need wisdom we can go to our Wonderful Counselor. When we feel our weakness and vulnerability, we can lean on our Mighty God. When we have need, we believe that our Everlasting Father will provide. And when the whole world feels like its on fire, we can find rest in the Prince of Peace.

So, this Advent season, let’s not just look back with joy and forward with hope, but let’s look at today with the confidence that Jesus is present with us in all of his wisdom, power, love and glory.