Waiting for His Coming

Simeon was “looking for the consolation of Israel” (Luke 2:26)

Anna was “looking for the redemption of Jerusalem” (Luke 2:38)

Classes had ended, and Grandpa Bob had agreed to drive our daughter Grace home for Christmas break—and he would visit for a couple of days too. But the weather between college and where Grandpa lived and where the family was living was forecast to be snow showers and icy roads. A three-hour trip on a fast interstate could easily turn into a crawling mess of tired drivers and unpredictable terror. My wife and I were eagerly awaiting their safe arrival—which was taking way too long! We knew they would get home, but we just did not know when.

When Jesus came into the world at His first coming, Simeon and Anna were eagerly and anxiously awaiting His arrival. Both knew the promises of His coming. And both felt a very personal element to His arrival: “consolation,” “redemption.” They knew He would come, but they were not sure when. His coming was expected but the exact time was uncertain—but His arrival eventually occurred.

Grandpa Bob and Grace finally arrived—safely but certainly. And Jesus came too—certainly and as promised. Despite our anxious waiting, that which was long-awaited eventually occurred.

Now we are waiting again—not for Grandpa Bob & one of our children to arrive for Christmas break, and not for Jesus’ first coming. While we wait for family and friends to arrive for this year’s Christmas celebrating, we are also awaiting Jesus’ second coming! Just as certainly He will come to bring eternal “consolation” and “redemption,” for He has promised, “Yes, I am coming quickly.” To which we eagerly respond with John the Apostle, “Amen. Come, Lord Jesus” (Rev. 22:20).”

Dr. Michel Dodds, Dean of the College & Chair Ministry Studies Department

Christmas Alien

“. . . as aliens and strangers . . . keep your behavior excellent among the Gentiles.” (1 Peter 2:11-12)

Over the years my appearance has changed from a slim, young man to a well-rounded, older man—with a white beard. Add to this visage rosy cheeks from cold weather and a dark red stocking cap from my wife to bring warmth to my thinning white hair and you see a striking resemblance to Jolly Old St. Nick. So, Christmas shopping and dining trips dressed like this brings me stares from young children as if they were seeing some kind of “alien”—a being from another place and time yet somehow familiar to them!

Once dressed like this while eating dinner at a popular restaurant after holiday shopping, I noticed a young girl staring at me and whispering something to her mother. She eventually got up, walked over, and asked if I were the “real” Santa Claus. I smiled and spoke softly, “Mrs. Claus and I are out on a date before I make my long trip. I would appreciate it if you would keep this between us. It might cause a fuss if everyone knew who I am. Are you being a good girl for mom and dad tonight?” She smiled and nodded vigorously as her mother mouthed, “Thank you!” The young lady touched my hand as if to ascertain I was “real” then returned to her family.

Believers in Jesus Christ should struggle with the whole “Santa Claus” dilemma—living like beings from another place and time yet somehow still familiar to others because of our “good deeds.” That evening I looked like an “alien” to that young girl, yet I tried to act with a gentle and jolly disposition for her sake (1 Peter 2:12). God expects His followers to interact with the rest of the world in a way that is observable and good—like aliens, yet good ones.  Let the world see that we are different; let them know we are “aliens” because of our relationship with the Christ of Christmas!

Dr. Skip Hessel, Chief Development Officer

One Size Fits All

“The angel said to them, “Do not be afraid; for behold, I bring you good news of great joy which will be for all the people.” (Luke 2:10)

Like most children, I was just giddy at Christmas time. With great enthusiasm, I would sneak under the tree to see what toys and games had my name on them (I think this was the start of my waking at 4 am every morning). So when I started getting things like shirts and pants, I felt let down—grownup gifts were no fun! As the years went on, the grownup gifts continued, and then one year my kids gave me some cool socks with bright colors and designs. I almost felt young again—notice I said young, you see I never stopped being a kid! Even dads could wear these socks, for as the tag pronounced: “One size fits all.”

That comfortable phrase, “one size fits all,” reminds us of the best gift of Christmas—the good news that Jesus came for everyone. The angel’s announcement to the shepherds of “good news . . . for all the people” was said to people not generally thought of as ones in higher society. And Magi from the east, people at the other end of society, were guided by a star to worship the newborn King. The Christ-child was born for all people—kings and peasants.

Jesus teaches us just how much the father loves us, and invites “whoever believes” to come to Him. The humble act of faith in Christ grants eternal life to those who trust Him (John 3:16).  If Jesus were just for the poor and marginalized, or only for the celebrated and privileged, many of us would not qualify. But Christ is for everyone, regardless of status, financial situation, or social standing. He is the only gift truly fit for all.

David Allen, Special Events Coordinator

It’s the Most Wonderful Time of the Year

“But the angel said to them, “I bring you good news of great joy . . . there has been born for you a Savior, who is Christ the Lord.” (Luke 2:10-11)

In 1963, Andy Williams recorded one of the most popular Christmas songs: “It’s the Most Wonderful Time of the Year.” While the lyrics speak of activities totally unfamiliar to the holiday celebrating today, its continued popularity is no doubt due to the remembered and the hoped-for fun times with family and friends during the Christmas season.

This was so true of my family and traditional expectations for Christmas. Two weeks before the day, my grandmother would begin making her treats for the feast to come. She filled the house with Christmas décor: candles, nativity scenes, garland, Christmas tree lane, and the always admired scene under the Christmas tree: a gingerbread house in a snow-covered forest with a deer pulling Santa’s sleigh off the roof.

And the most wonderful part of it all was the presents! I was usually so excited about the presents I didn’t eat much dinner and would have to go back and snack after the presents were opened. It was all truly “the most wonderful time of the year.”

While I will forever treasure these memories as a child, I am now a believer in the Lord Jesus Christ and now realize we were missing a key aspect. We neglected the most wonderful reason to gather together and celebrate. Christmas was the moment God became a man so that He could save us from sin and grant us eternal life in Him. Is there anything more wonderful to celebrate?!

Andy Williams was not wrong when he sang, It’s the Most Wonderful Time of the Year; however, it’s the most wonderful time of the year because Jesus Christ came into the world so that whoever believes in Him shall not perish but have eternal life! May your Christmas be “the most wonderful time of the year” celebrating with your family the coming of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ!

James Dykmann, MABT Degree Major