Behold He Comes, Bringing Salvation

(Advent, waiting for the coming of Christ. He came once, as the Christmas babe we greet; one day He will come again to set things right. For the four Sundays of December we will celebrate Advent by finishing the statement: Behold he comes, bringing... with a final installment on Christmas Day.)

In prophesying the coming of Jesus, Isaiah said, Surely he took up our infirmities and carried our sorrows, yet we considered him stricken by God, smitten by him, and afflicted. But he was pierced for our transgressions, he was crushed for our iniquities; the punishment that brought us peace was upon him, and by his wounds we are healed (Isaiah 53:4-5).

When Simeon, who was waiting for the consolation of Israel, held the infant Jesus at His dedication at the temple, the Holy Spirit revealed to him that Jesus was the Savior for whom he had waited. Sovereign Lord, as you have promised, you now dismiss your servant in peace. For my eyes have seen your salvation, which you have prepared in the sight of all people, a light for revelation to the Gentiles and for glory to your people Israel (Luke 2:29-32).

Peter and John boldly proclaimed, Salvation is found in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given to men by which we must be saved (Acts 4:12).

Forgiveness, cleansing, reconciliation, a renewed relationship with God the Father -- this is salvation, and has come to us through Jesus.