Christmas: A Season of Holy Anticipation
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As we approach Christmas, I want to invite us to slow down—not to rush past the season—but to stand in expectation. Christmas is not only a celebration of what has come; it is a reminder of how God prepares His people for what is coming.
Growing up, Christmas in our home meant preparation. Not just a tree or decorations—but a deep, intentional readiness.
We cleaned thoroughly.
Furniture was rearranged.
Sometimes walls were painted, floors redone, curtains and linens replaced.
The house had to reflect what we were expecting.
We were preparing for joy.
Preparing for celebration.
Preparing for the arrival of something precious.
And in many ways, that mirrors the heart of Advent.
Expectation Is Biblical
Scripture tells us that the coming of Christ was surrounded by anticipation—a holy waiting rooted in trust.
“For a child is born to us, a son is given to us… and the government shall be upon His shoulder.” Isaiah 9:6
This promise was spoken centuries before Jesus arrived, yet God’s people lived in expectation. They waited. They watched. They prepared their hearts for what God said He would do.
Preparation Makes Room for Promise
Luke tells us that Mary received the promise before she ever held the child.
“Behold, you will conceive in your womb and bear a son, and you shall call His name Jesus.” Luke 1:31
Mary didn’t rush to decorate—she rushed to surrender.
Her preparation was internal before it was ever external.
And that’s the invitation of Christmas for us.
Just as we prepare our homes, God asks:
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Have you made room in your heart?
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Have you cleared space for His peace?
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Have you rearranged anything that no longer serves His purpose?
Expectation Produces Joy
The Bible says:
“For as soon as I heard the sound of your greeting, the baby in my womb leaped for joy.” Luke 1:44
Joy leaped before the birth.
Why? Because expectation was alive.
Biblical joy isn’t rooted in what we see—it’s rooted in what we believe is coming.
Christmas Is Still About Readiness
Every year, when we prepare our homes, we’re reenacting a spiritual truth:
God deserves our best preparation, not our leftovers.
“Prepare the way of the Lord; make His paths straight.” Isaiah 40:3
Christmas reminds us that God shows up where hearts are ready—cleaned, cleared, and positioned to receive Him.
Closing Encouragement
As we enter this Christmas season, let us ask:
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What needs to be cleaned out spiritually?
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What needs to be rearranged in our priorities?
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What expectation have we stopped believing God for?
Because the same God who came then still comes now—into prepared hearts, expectant lives, and joyful anticipation.
Let us prepare—not just our homes—but our spirits.
Amen.