The birth of Christ is the central event in the history of the earth. Advent begins four Sundays before Christmas, as we prepare for the celebration of Christmas Day. It prepares us for the celebration of the birth of Christ but also reminds us that we eagerly await his second advent. As Advent Christians, our belief and focus on the imminent return of Christ certainly enhances our celebration of the four advent messages. Throughout history, the Israelites anticipated the coming of their Messiah. Over 400 Scriptures and prophecies outline his birth, life, death, resurrection and return.

“Prepare the way of the Lord” serves as a main theme in the Christmas season and in our lives, both in our day-to-day commitment to Christ and in our anticipation for the Second Coming of Christ. The first week of Advent focuses on the prophesies related to the coming of Christ. Prophesies encouraged, warned, prepared and taught the people about God, his ways and his plans. These Scriptures gave Old Testament Israelites hope during the times of slavery, building the kingdom and suffering in exile. These future prophesies give us hope and promises about our coming home to the kingdom of God during our struggles in this world

Isaiah declared, “Come, people of Israel, let us walk in the light of the Lord” Isaiah 2:5. Today, as we prepare for the Christmas season, may our hope rest in the Light of the Lord with the knowledge that Jesus was born in Bethlehem to bring salvation to all who believe. Let this hope ring out to everyone we come in contact with focusing on our Risen Savior and our promise of his return.