The Then and The Not Yet

Suddenly, the Lord descending!

The Then. His first advent.

The Not Yet. His second advent. 

Christmas Eve. 

The Lord descended. He appeared in the temple. Gently held by his adoring parents. Then cradled in the arms of old Simeon. 

“Now Lord, You are releasing Your bond-servant to depart in peace,
According to Your word;
³⁰ For my eyes have seen Your salvation,
³¹ Which You have prepared in the presence of all peoples,
³² A Light of revelation to the Gentiles,
And the glory of Your people Israel.”
From Luke 2

Do you recall the response of Joseph and Mary? They were amazed by Simeon’s words (2:33)! And a moment later, elderly Anna gave thanks to God (2:38). What a visit that was! What a visit the Incarnation was! What a visit awaits us when the Lord descends again!

Saints before the altar bending,
Watching long in hope and fear,
Suddenly the Lord, descending,
In His temple shall appear:

Come and worship,
come and worship,
Worship Christ, the newborn King.