The season of Advent has long been a time of reflection upon the birth of Christ and a preparation for the season of Epiphany in Christian tradition. We often forget though, the early church’s celebration of Advent was not a reflection on the birth of Christ, but an expectant gaze towards His return.
“The Light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it.” John 1:5 ESV
This season of Advent is a season of expectancy, waiting for the Light to come.
Waiting for the Light to finally conquer the darkness forever.
Waiting with our lights held high in this dark world.
But our waiting is not hopeless. It is an expectant waiting, a waiting that knows how the story ends.
Expectant Light
In the Christmas narrative, Simeon was waiting for the Messiah. He waited expectantly, clinging to a promise from the Holy Spirit that he would not die before he saw the Lord’s Christ (Luke 2:25-35). Imagine his joy at seeing Jesus, knowing that the Light had finally come.
“Then he took [the child] into his arms, and blessed God, and said,
“Now Lord, You are releasing Your bond-servant to depart in peace,
According to Your word;
For my eyes have seen Your salvation,
Which You have prepared in the presence of all peoples,
A Light of revelation to the Gentiles,
And the glory of Your people Israel.”And His father and mother were amazed at the things which were being said about Him. And Simeon blessed them and said to Mary His mother, “Behold, this Child is appointed for the fall and rise of many in Israel, and for a sign to be opposed— and a sword will pierce even your own soul—to the end that thoughts from many hearts may be revealed.” Luke 2:28-35 NASB
We wait, as the virgins with lamp stands, expectant for our Bridegroom to come. Prepared, for His return (Matthew 25:1-13).
“But at midnight there was a shout, ‘Behold, the bridegroom! Come out to meet him.’ Then all those virgins rose and trimmed their lamps. The foolish said to the prudent, ‘Give us some of your oil, for our lamps are going out.’ But the prudent answered, ‘No, there will not be enough for us and you too; go instead to the dealers and buy some for yourselves.’ And while they were going away to make the purchase, the bridegroom came, and those who were ready went in with him to the wedding feast; and the door was shut.” Matthew 25: 6-10 NASB
And as we wait, we shine bright the Light that has already come into the world. The Light of all mankind. This Light was not selective in where it shone. It did not shield itself from certain types of darkness.
“And who would light a lamp and then hide it in an obscure place? Instead, it’s placed where everyone in the house can benefit from its light.” Matthew 5:15 TPT
This Light is , “The Word [that] became flesh and blood, and moved into the neighborhood” John 1:14. The neighborhood that feels dark. That you avoid driving through at night. That’s the neighborhood this Light moved into and made His home.
The Darkest Nights
December has always felt dark to me. It is the darkest month of the year with the shortest daylight hours. And it is easy in this season to feel that the darkness has won. As you go through Advent this year remember the Light that has already come. Keep your lamp burning bright and do not fear the darkness.
If you need a reminder of the power of the Light:
Sit in a dark room and let yourself observe the darkness.
Then light a candle and meditate upon how the darkness flees.
It cannot overcome the Light.
“The Light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it.” John 1:5 ESV
Free Advent Devotional
For more reflection on the advent season journey through an advent devotional. The free ebook devotional below can be started now and done at your own pace, or can be started on December 14th to finish on Christmas.
More Christmas Posts from Shelemah
Holiday Self-Care Advent Calendar
When it’s Not the Most Wonderful Time of the Year
The Lies We Believe at Christmas