This Advent season is a reminder that we are in a season of waiting. Jesus has come and we celebrate that he accomplished our salvation through his incarnation, life, death and resurrection. But we are also waiting for him to make all things new. There are still many we love struggling with sickness and sadness. The brokenness of the world is ever apparent. But our Lord has shown us that He keeps his promises. For many years the Israelites were waiting for their Messiah. Reading the book of Matthew shows us how he came and fulfilled so many prophecies. We can trust that He will come again. This Christmas, I have a greater sense of longing for the day when there will be no more sickness and death.
Then I saw “a new heaven and a new earth,” for the first heaven and the first earth had passed away, and there was no longer any sea. I saw the Holy City, the new Jerusalem, coming down out of heaven from God, prepared as a bride beautifully dressed for her husband. And I heard a loud voice from the throne saying, “Look! God’s dwelling place is now among the people, and he will dwell with them. They will be his people, and God himself will be with them and be their God. ‘He will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death’ or mourning or crying or pain, for the old order of things has passed away.” He who was seated on the throne said, “I am making everything new!” Then he said, “Write this down, for these words are trustworthy and true.” (Revelation 21:1-5)
As we celebrate this season and enjoy the good gifts it brings, we also look forward to with longing for the ultimate fulfillment in Christ's second coming, when He will wipe away every tear from our eyes. But in this time of waiting, He has called us to share the good news. He has given us the privilege and joy of sharing his love and hope wherever he has placed us at the time.
