Luke 2:22-35 | The Waiting & Longing (Simeon) - Hope

What is Christmas Really About? Learning to Wait with Advent

The holiday season is here, and with it comes the joy, traditions, and yes—the waiting. But amidst the festive lights and nostalgic songs, have you ever paused to ask: What is Christmas really about?

Sure, the world might tell us it’s about gifts, family gatherings, or even catchy car commercials like "Happy Honda Days." Yet, as Christians, we believe there’s something deeper—something eternal—anchoring this sacred time of year.

Christmas, at its heart, teaches us how to wait.

The Gift of Waiting: Lessons from Advent

Advent, a season of anticipation, invites us to reflect on the longing of the Hebrew people who awaited the Messiah. The word "Advent" means "coming," and it prepares us to celebrate the birth of Jesus while reminding us of His promised return. This dual focus transforms Christmas from a mere celebration into a season of profound spiritual waiting.

Think back to your childhood. Remember the anticipation of Christmas morning? The sheer torture of waiting to open presents? That longing mirrors the anticipation felt by those who awaited the arrival of Jesus.

Why Did Jesus Come?

The arrival of Jesus wasn’t just a historical event; it was the fulfillment of a divine promise. As theologian D.A. Carson so beautifully explains, God sent a Savior, not because we needed better rules or political stability, but because we needed rescue from our sin and alienation from Him.

“If God had perceived that our greatest need was economic, He would have sent an economist. If our greatest need was entertainment, He would have sent a comedian. But our greatest need involved our sin, rebellion, and death. So, God sent a Savior.”

Jesus didn’t come to enhance traditions or provide temporary fixes. He came to transform lives, bringing hope, joy, peace, and love to a broken world.

Seeing Christmas Through New Eyes

This year, our church is diving deeper into the Christmas story by exploring it through different perspectives. From the women who played pivotal roles to the least and the lowly who found good news in His coming, each perspective teaches us something profound about waiting, longing, and the transformative power of Christ.

And as we reflect on the power of waiting, we’re reminded that Jesus’ arrival brought hope to a weary world. Every Christmas movie hints at this truth—hope that, in the end, things will be made right.

What Are You Waiting For This Christmas?

As we light the Advent candles and sing carols, let’s remember: Christmas is about learning to wait. It’s about aligning our hearts with God’s promises and finding hope in the coming of Jesus. The waiting isn’t just a prelude—it’s a gift, shaping our faith and drawing us closer to God.

This holiday season, may we embrace the wait with anticipation and joy, knowing that the same Jesus who came to earth over 2,000 years ago will come again.