Anticipating His Advent #3

In Isaiah 7, King Ahaz and his people are living in dreadful fear. Their enemies were planning a seige against Jerusalem, and Ahaz felt hopeless and helpless. He was even afraid to ask God for a sign that they indeed would be spared this time from invasion. Here is Isaiah's response on behalf of the Lord:

 13 And he said, “Hear then, O house of David! Is it too little for you to weary men, that you weary my God also? 14 Therefore the Lord himself will give you a sign. Behold, the virgin shall conceive and bear a son, and shall call his name Immanuel.

Want it or not: here is God's sign: A Son, Immanuel, God with us. This became one of many prophecies that kept God's Old Testament people going, watching and waiting, anticipating the coming Messiah, even in the worst of times.  Anticipation of Christ's advent helps drive away fear - no matter how bad things may seem at the time.  This is not "the most wonderful time of the year because of snow or shopping or Snoopy decorating his doghouse.  It is a time of hope that rises above fear, of seeing the signs that God still has a plan, and that plan is Jesus Christ, who came as promised, and who will come again as promised. Whatever your fears or apprehensions this year, choose a celebration and anticipation of His coming.