Beholding the King

The prophets foretold of a king. A king who would be righteous and victorious (Zechariah 9:9). God’s people waited. Much of the waiting was in darkness. Earthy kings failed them over and over again. When there was devastation all around, Isaiah prophesied, “The people who walk in darkness will see a great light. For those who live in a land of deep darkness, a light will shine” (Isaiah 9:2).

Their longing was deep. Then 400 Silent Years came where there were no new prophets to reveal anything about the coming Christ. Darkness fell and it was silent. God’s people needed rescuing.

With great intensity, they longed for a rescuer. I think it’s interesting to notice who had eyes to see that Jesus was the Messiah in the Christmas story. Who were the ones still watching and waiting with expectation? Many had given up. Many had chosen to numb the pains of waiting by choosing their own way. Many took their eyes off the promise.

Then there were the faithful ones.