Therefore the Lord himself will give you a sign. Behold, the virgin shall conceive and bear a son, and shall call his name Immanuel. Isaiah 7:14 ESV

For to us a child is born, to us a son is given; and the government shall be upon his shoulder, and his name shall be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. Isaiah 9:6 ESV

There are several prophecies of the coming Messiah in the Old Testament. Many are in Isaiah 53. The prophet Jeremiah tells us that the Messiah will be in the line of David. (Jeremiah 23:5-6) The prophet Micah says that the Messiah, “a ruler in Israel,” will be born in Bethlehem. (Micah 5:2)

Anticipation is looking forward to something good that will come in the future. We anticipated the birth of our granddaughter for months before she was born. The people of Israel anticipated the arrival of the Messiah. The prophets shared many details about the Messiah, the Son of David, the Son of God, the Prince of Peace.

As we “anticipate” the celebrations of the birth of Jesus this Christmas season, let’s first recognize the truly amazing gift of the Messiah, Jesus, our Savior! But I also have a special challenge for all of us as we look to Jesus this Christmas. In anticipation of Christmas, let each one of us find ways to be His “hands and feet.” Invite someone who may not have family nearby to dinner, take someone who can’t drive shopping, give a gift that someone isn’t expecting, share a smile, and show love for all those you come into contact with. Let others see Jesus through you!

I thank God for each of you! And I thank you for joining me as we anticipate the celebrations of the birth of Jesus, our Savior, our Messiah, our Lord.

Blessings and joy, hope and humility as we serve Jesus by serving others!