One of my favorite Christmas memories is reading through an advent storybook with my family called Jotham’s Journey each year. It was so much fun to follow along with the story of a young boy who goes searching for his lost family and not only finds them, but also finds Jesus! Each night left my siblings and me with a cliff hanger. We found ourselves eagerly waiting to see what would happen next and wondering how the story would end when we read the last chapter on Christmas Day.

As the years have gone by, I’ll admit that I don’t always have the same kind of joyful anticipation towards Christmas as I used to. There are exams to take, deadlines to meet, and a job to find as graduation approaches this spring.

But during my time in college, I have also gained a greater appreciation for the advent season. Through my Bible classes and conversations with my friend Asheritah, I have learned that advent is not just about celebrating the fact that Jesus came, but that He is coming!

In a way, when Jesus ascended into heaven after his resurrection, He left us with a cliff hanger, only we know how the story ends.

We know that one day He will return.

We know that the One who was promised from the very beginning in Genesis 3:15 and throughout the Old Testament will one day put an end to the curse of sin in this world and make everything new. (Revelation 21:5)

Through Jesus’ first coming in the form of a baby, God initiated his plan to provide salvation for all who would repent and believe in the gospel. Through Jesus’ second coming, the fullness of the salvation we have received in Christ will be realized and we will live eternally with Him.

So as we remember the hope and salvation that we have because of Christ’s birth (and, ultimately, His death and resurrection) this advent season, let us not forget to look forward with great anticipation for the day that he will return to establish His eternal kingdom in justice, righteousness, and peace forever.

Because one day, the baby in the manger will return as King.

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.
Of the increase of his government and of peace
    there will be no end,
on the throne of David and over his kingdom,
    to establish it and to uphold it
with justice and with righteousness
    from this time forth and forevermore.
The zeal of the Lord of hosts will do this.

Isaiah 9:6-7