There is something about the cold winter days that makes God seem far away. Although Christmas lights illuminate the darkness and carols play on the radio, my soul still aches with loneliness. I can’t help but wonder if Christ is ever going to return.

2000 years ago, the earth groaned with the same complaints that I have today. The calloused hearts of the political leaders and the spiritual poverty of the people, must have made God seem distant. Although prophecies and God-given laws illuminated the bleakness of those days, souls were still left feeling empty. They must have wondered if the Messiah was ever going to come.

When the world least expected it, God incarnate took His first breath. In a cold cave He suckled His mother’s breast while swaddled in rags. He took His first wobbly steps on the same ground that we walk. He prayed under the same stars that we sleep under. There God was, closer to us than ever.

Advent is a period of waiting. The earth begs for healing. Our souls ponder the coming of the Messiah. All of Creation looks for the return of Christ. In the midst of our vulnerability, do you feel a sense of hopeful expectation? Do you hear the angels singing the praises of Christ’s victory?

“For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given: and the government shall be upon His shoulders: and His name shall be called Wonderful, Counselor, The mighty God, The everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.” (Isaiah 9:6)