A Humble First Advent; A Glorious Second Advent

As you remember and celebrate the birth of our Savior, Jesus Christ, remember that He is the Incarnate Lord of Glory, who came into this world under humble circumstances, in a stable, the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world (John 1:29). His first coming was a humble entrance into this fallen world and left this fallen world having suffered the humiliation of the cross as the Lamb slain for sinners, like you and me, slain to obtain for us the forgiveness of sins, righteousness, salvation and everlasting life. Though His first coming can be described as humble and not at all what we would expect from a king, we need to remember that He was more than a king; He was and is the King of kings and Lord of lords, the King of the Jews (true Jews according to Romans 2:28; His Elect, Chosen People according to grace – Romans 11:5). He sits at the right of God the Father, reigning over all nations until He makes all His enemies a footstool.

Further, though you will go through much tribulation in this world, be of good cheer, Jesus overcame the world, overcame sin and the devil on the cross (John 6:33); He proved His conquest by His resurrection. Though our situation and circumstances may look bleak for the near future (things aren’t what they seem, if you buy the narrative of the day), there is hope. So, stay strong in Christ, putting your trust in Him who reigns forever, who is our Savior and Lord, our Sovereign providers of all our needs – our strength, our refuge, our salvation from the hands of wicked men.

Also, as we consider the humble beginnings of our Savior’s birth, let us also look forward to His Second Advent, His Second Coming. It will be far different than His first. He came as a Lamb for the slaughter, but He will come again with might and power, with a shout and with trumpets blasting, riding on a white horse to put an end to this fallen, evil world, melting it with fervent heat; and with all the effects sin purged, He will make the new heavens and new earth in which all who came to Him in repentance and faith bearing the seal of God, the Holy Spirit, will enjoy Him in eternal blessedness in His presence forever to the praise and glory of God (1 Thessalonians 4:16; Revelation 19; 2 Peter 3:9-12; Revelation 20:6-15; 21:1-8; 7:3-4; 14:1; 22:3-5).

This is our hope in turbulent times, in tribulation – stay focused on Jesus Christ. Don’t be deceived by all those who seek give a false hope conjured up by men enslaved to this fallen world – either by reassure you of “secret rapture” or to make it a “better” world. Study His word for what it says, not what men say it says (interpret Scripture with Scripture, the Old Testament with the fulfillment revealed in the New Testament). Finally, don’t get distracted from being a light of the gospel to all who sit in darkness. Pray diligently, fervently to be filled with the Holy Spirit, so that you might remain steadfast in the Gospel of our Savior, Jesus Christ, no matter the consequences that results from the hands of wicked men! Then, pray that God’s elect would call sinners, wicked men, out of the world and into His kingdom that is by grace alone through faith alone in His one atoning sacrifice on the cross some 2,000 years ago.

Many blessing to you today and every day until Jesus comes again in glory!

Soli Deo Gloria!