2021 Advent Devotional

While many were waiting for God to set up a kingdom on human terms, Simeon and Anna beheld the true nature of God’s kingdom when they saw his Messiah. As Mary and Joseph entered the temple, the Holy Spirit opened their eyes to see a helpless baby boy. Israel’s true savior would not come as a military commander. God’s Messiah did not come in violence to exercise coercive power. No, he came in humility as the child of lowly parents. Indeed, their offering of “a pair of turtledoves” was appointed in the law for the poorest of the poor. While their eyes had been opened to the truth about the little baby named Jesus, their minds must have filled with awe as they wondered: What does it mean that God’s Messiah came as a poor, vulnerable baby? Even though many were hoping God would one day send a rescuer, few recognized him when he came because he wasn’t the kind of savior they expected—or wanted. Simeon and Anna represent those who patiently wait on the Lord to comfort and to save his people according to his glorious purpose. To them, the poor son of a carpenter was not a disappointment, for Simeon worshipped God saying, “My eyes have seen your salvation... for the glory of your people Israel.” God’s savior did not come to rule over them but to live with them. One day, he would also die for them. His birth was good news to the poor, the outcast, the sinner, to those who understood their desperate need for a savior... and to those who waited for him with eager expectation. • As we celebrate the birth of Jesus, consider this: What does it mean that God’s Messiah came as a poor, vulnerable baby? • If God’s power for salvation is revealed in Christ’s humility, then what does that mean for those who trust in him? • Are you trusting in Jesus to save you from your sins? Or, are you trusting in Jesus to help you save yourself? 44