The word Advent originated from the Latin word “adventus,” which means “coming” or “arrival.” The advent foretold by the Old Testament prophet, Isaiah, is “For to us a child is born, to us a son is given; and the government shall be upon his shoulder, and his name shall be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace” (Isaiah 9:6 ESV). His prophetic vision is of a child who would represent God’s presence, embody his characteristics, bear the responsibility of governing his people, and is given titles that could only rightfully be attributed to God. Isaiah spoke of a blessing which he foresaw with certainty that would be bestowed. His prophecy of the coming child was an encouragement for all God’s people, not only for the people of Isaiah’s day, but for all future generations. The birth of the Messiah, Jesus Christ, was for the benefit of all people, all sinners, all believers, and was the coming salvation for all mankind, from the beginning to the end of the world.
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In the Gospel of John, the fulfillment of Isaiah’s prophecy is of a child who would not be merely human, but the incarnation of the living God.“The Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us. We have seen his glory, the glory of the one and only Son, who came from the Father, full of grace and truth” (John 1:14 NIV).
Discuss
Christ brings hope.
The Word of God gives us hope in him and his revelation to mankind, trusting in him for all things. “For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans for welfare and not for evil, to give you a future and a hope” (Jeremiah 29:11 ESV).
Christ brings peace.
Jesus brings peace to our hearts and lives in a troubled world. “Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.” (Matthew 11:28 ESV).
Christ brings joy.
Joy is long lasting and present when we actively pursue Jesus. “Oh come, let us sing to the Lord; let us make a joyful noise to the rock of our salvation!” (Psalm 95:1 ESV).
Christ brings love.
God’s love, unconditional and freely given, is manifested in the salvation Jesus offers for all. “For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life.” (John 3:16 ESV).
Pray
Almighty God,
We give you all praise and glory for the hope, peace, joy, and love that you offer through your Son, Jesus Christ. Thank you, Lord, for the fulfillment of Isaiah’s prophecy in the birth of your Son, and for the gift of salvation he brings for all mankind. May his light shine into our hearts and make us wise unto salvation. We give praise that Jesus reigns to this day and unto the end of time, glorifying you!
In his holy name,
Amen.
And fir each of us here on Earth, the days are coming when each of us will HOPEFULLY be in HIS presence FOREVER.
Your organization is a real uplift to grandparenting. We live in a world where it seems many don’t know what Christmas is all about which is very sad.
I have a poem of how Christ views our celebrations which many times have nothing to do with His birth.
May each of us as Christmas approaches do whatever we can in our sphere of society to show how love, kindness and concern for others far outweighs any material gift.
Thanks for your encouragement. It is much appreciated.
Thank you, Barbara, for your words of encouragement. May God bless you and your family in the New Year.