“The prophets, who spoke of the grace that was to come to you, searched intently and with the greatest care, trying to find out the time and circumstances to which the Spirit of Christ in them was pointing when he predicted the sufferings of the Messiah and the glories that would follow… even angels long to look into these things.” 1 Pet.1:10-12
Lord Jesus, it’s the first Sunday of Advent—a 4-Sunday stretch set apart for pondering the glories of your two comings, lingering in the promises of the Gospel, and giving voice to our restless desire, deep longings, and growing love for you.
The prophets and angels certainly felt these things—as reflected in today’s passage. I love Peter’s description of their awe-filled curiosity and great anticipation. Though they didn’t know your name, Jesus, they knew your comings would be both costly and glorious.
You came to us low and got even lower. From your cradle to your cross to your crown—everything about you is marked by your matchless humility and measureless grace. You are the Lamb of God who takes away the sins of the world, and the Lord of Lords who takes everything broken in the world and makes it new.
We gratefully live on this side of your first coming, but we intensely crave to live on the other side of your second coming. Jesus, we are so ready for you to return and finish making all things new and beautiful—starting with our own unglorified hearts. During Advent, take us by the hand and heart and lead us deeper into the holy ache and living hope you alone can satisfy. Stun us afresh, Jesus, with the riches of your now-and-coming-grace. So Very Amen.