In many churches, Advent observances are underway. Congregants are being reminded of the events leading up to Christ’s birth, events which fulfilled Old Testament prophecies pointing God’s people to the promised Messiah.
But most people of Jesus’ day missed the signs. Oh, there were a handful that came to worship Him as He lay in a humble cattle stall; the shepherds who heard the angels’ proclamation. There were a few who honored Him as King of Kings; wise men who followed a star to bring Him costly gifts. And, of course, Mary and Joseph knew His true lineage.
But most people who encountered Jesus rejected Him. They did not believe He was the Messiah. They did not follow and worship Him. They did not recognize Christ as the One God sent to offer the ultimate sin sacrifice for all time.
Things haven’t changed. Now, as then, most people who encounter Jesus reject Him. They sing the carols and mark the celebration of His birth with empty traditions but they fail to acknowledge Him as the Messiah. This should not come as a surprise. The Bible makes it clear in Matthew 7:13-14 that we must
“Enter through the narrow gate; for the gate is wide and the way is broad that leads to destruction, and there are many who enter through it. For the gate is small and the way is narrow that leads to life, and there are few who find it.”
Jesus did not preach an inclusive gospel. His love called people out of the darkness of their sinful ways, their pursuit of other gods, into the light of one key truth, simply stated in John 14:6:
“I [Jesus] am the Way, the Truth, and the Life. No one comes to the Father but through me.”
Emmanuel became flesh and dwelt among us for one purpose; to become our salvation for this life and all of eternity. If you’re hope is not securely grounded by grace alone, through faith alone, in Christ alone, to God’s glory alone, you are on that narrow path that leads to destruction. Seek God earnestly through prayer (just talking to God) and reading the Bible (ask God to help you understand it). He promises this in Jeremiah 29:13.
“You will seek Me and find Me when you search for Me with all your heart.”
The prophecies surrounding Christ’s birth have been fulfilled. But the prophecies pointing to Christ’s return are still being fulfilled in our day. Most don’t know or believe the signs. Even if they recognize them, many don’t take them seriously. But one day Christ will come back; not as a humble baby but as a conquering King. He will gather up His children, those who pursued the narrow way to life, and take them to their eternal home where peace and joy will reign forevermore.
For lo the days are hastening on, by prophet bards foretold,
When with the ever-circling years comes round the age of gold;
When peace shall over all the earth its ancient splendors fling,
And the whole world give back the song which now the angels sing.
It Came Upon a Midnight Clear
Edmund Sears