Series: Longing
December 08, 2024 | Scott Harris
Passage: Isaiah 7:14
The speaker begins by discussing the process of planning a Christmas series, which he starts thinking about months in advance. His wife suggests a theme of "longing," which immediately resonates with him and sparks an emotional reflection on the deep desire for Jesus seen throughout Scripture. The series will focus on Old Testament prophecies about the Messiah, particularly from Isaiah 7, which highlights the theme of longing for Emmanuel. The speaker explains the historical setting of Isaiah, where Israel and Judah are divided, and Judah faces the threat of attack from Israel and Syria. King Ahaz of Judah, lacking faith and character, succumbs to fear and aligns with the evil Assyrian empire, even offering tribute from the temple to secure their protection. The speaker emphasizes how fear and adversity reveal one's character, citing examples from life, including marriage and personal struggles, where true character is exposed in times of difficulty. The narrative highlights the contrast between Ahaz's failure and the deeper longing for God's intervention and the coming of the Messiah.
Series Information
From the very first promise of a Messiah in Genesis 3:15 to the miraculous arrival of Jesus on that first Christmas, God’s people lived with a deep, aching longing. They waited through generations, clinging to hope, trusting in the faithfulness of God.
Today, we find ourselves in a similar season of waiting—longing for the return of Jesus, our Savior and King. Yet Christmas reminds us of a profound truth: God always keeps His promises. The same God who sent His Son into the world will one day send Him again to restore all things.
This holy longing should ignite something within us. It should awaken a steadfast trust in the One who came to save and will come again in glory. Let the waiting inspire us to live with bold faith, unshakable hope, and a heart fully surrendered to Jesus. The promise is sure—He will return.
