Today we light the first candle known as the “Prophet’s candle.” Imagine the eager waiting and longing for the appearance of God’s chosen one. 700 years before the coming of the Promised Christ, the Messianic King, God gave these prophetic words through the prophet Isaiah:

Isaiah 9:2-7 says: The people walking in darkness have seen a great light; on those living in the land of the shadow of death a light has dawned. You have enlarged the nation and increased their joy; they rejoice before you as people rejoice at the harvest, as men rejoice when dividing the plunder. For as in the day of Midian’s defeat, you have shattered the yoke that burdens them, the bar across their shoulders, the rod of their oppressor. Every warrior’s boot used in battle and every garment rolled in blood will be destined for burning, will be fuel for the fire. For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders. And he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. Of the increase of his government and peace there will be no end. He will reign on David’s throne and over his kingdom, establishing and upholding it with justice and righteousness from that time on and forever.

Give us our fill of expectation. Renew in us the eager longing of those who waited for the Messiah’s First Coming. Give us that same hope as we await the Second Coming of Jesus. Amen.