Long-Expected Jesus

“Then a shoot will spring from the stem of Jesse, and a Branch from his roots will bear fruit.”—Isaiah 11:1 NASB

People waited through the rule of countless kings and times when foreign armies fought over their land. They waited as their temple was destroyed and then rebuilt. They waited during years of exile and return. Over time, some stopped believing. Others gave up hope. But some held on to prophecies and the promise that the Messiah would come.

Then He came into the world! But Jesus was born at a time and in a way that surprised many. He brought hope for everyone (Isaiah 42:1–4). Overwhelmed by how God’s promises were fulfilled, Charles Wesley wrote “Come, Thou Long-Expected Jesus,” a hymn celebrating the prophetic aspects of His birth.

Wesley described how Jesus was born to deliver His people. Although born in humble circumstances, He still was a King, born to reign. Wesley prayed that by the Holy Spirit, He would “rule in all our hearts alone.”

Wesley wrote that Jesus was born to set His people free. These words may have been inspired by the years Wesley spent in America where he was troubled by slavery. He knew Jesus could bring complete freedom and everyone could find rest in Him.

People may look for political or economic solutions to world problems. But Wesley knew that Jesus is the “hope of all the earth.” He is the “desire of every nation, joy of every longing heart.”

Now, you can celebrate! The long-expected Messiah has come! You can hope in Him.

Reflection Question: Reflect on what Christmas means to you today.