Advent is a season of waiting, hope, and reflection. As we prepare to celebrate the birth of Jesus, we are reminded that God’s intervention changes the course of history. Advent symbolizes that even in the face of despair, the story isn’t over. It is a time to remember that when all seems lost, God is faithful to bring restoration and life.
The word “Advent” comes from the Latin adventus, meaning “coming” or “arrival.” It is a time when Christians prepare their hearts to celebrate Christ’s birth while also anticipating His second coming. During this season, we reflect on themes of waiting, watching, and trusting in God’s promises, even when the outcome seems uncertain.
In the time leading up to Jesus’ birth, Israel had been waiting for the Messiah for centuries. They endured foreign oppression, exile, and silence from God. Many wondered if the promises of old would ever come to pass. Yet, Advent reminds us that God’s timing is perfect.
“When the fullness of time had come, God sent forth his Son, born of woman, born under the law.” (Galatians 4:4)
Like the Israelites, we too live in a world where darkness and brokenness abound. Advent teaches us to trust in the light of Christ that shines even in the darkest places. It celebrates the coming of Emmanuel, “God with us.” This is the ultimate intervention, where God stepped into history in the person of Jesus Christ to bring salvation to a lost and dying world.
“The people walking in darkness have seen a great light; on those living in the land of deep darkness a light has dawned.” (Isaiah 9:2)
Advent assures us that no matter how hopeless things seem, God is with us and working for our good.
One of the most powerful examples of God’s intervention is the story of Lazarus in John 11. When Lazarus, a beloved friend of Jesus, fell ill, his sisters Mary and Martha sent word to Jesus, hoping He would come and heal him. But Jesus delayed, and Lazarus died.
When Jesus arrived four days after Lazarus had been laid in the tomb, grief hung heavily over the family and community. Martha’s words echoed the despair many of us feel when hope seems lost: “Lord, if you had been here, my brother would not have died.” (John 11:21)
It appeared that the story was over. Lazarus was dead, and all hope was gone. But Jesus saw beyond the finality of the grave. Jesus assured Martha, “I am the resurrection and the life. The one who believes in me will live, even though they die.” (John 11:25) This statement is a cornerstone of our Advent hope. Just as Jesus brought Lazarus back to life, He came into the world to defeat sin and death for all humanity.
Standing before Lazarus’ tomb, Jesus called out, “Lazarus, come out!” (John 11:43) Lazarus emerged, alive and whole. This miracle is a testament to the truth that it is never over when God is involved. No matter how final or irreversible a situation appears, God has the power to bring life from death.
The story of Advent is the story of God’s faithfulness to intervene when all seems lost. Whether in the promise of the Messiah, the resurrection of Lazarus, or the hope we carry into our own challenges, God’s message is clear: it’s not over yet!
As we journey through Advent, let us hold tightly to the promise of Emmanuel—God with us. Let us look to the past for assurance of His faithfulness and to the future with hope for His continued work in our lives.
“For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” (Jeremiah 29:11)
This Advent, may we rest in the truth that God is still writing our story, and with Him, it is never over.
