A theological reflection on God’s unexpected timing in sending the Messiah—and His soon return.
“Who has believed what he has heard from us? And to whom has the arm of the Lord been revealed? For he grew up before him like a young plant, and like a root out of dry ground; he had no form or majesty that we should look at him, and no beauty that we should desire him.”
Throughout Israel’s history, the people awaited the promised Messiah, expecting Him to come during seasons of spiritual strength and political sovereignty. They anticipated His arrival during:
Yet God, in His sovereign wisdom, chose the darkest hour—during the pagan Roman Empire’s rule—when Israel was politically subdued, spiritually compromised, and culturally Hellenized.
Galatians 4:4–5 (ESV) “But when the fullness of time had come, God sent forth his Son, born of woman, born under the law, to redeem those who were under the law, so that we might receive adoption as sons.”
It was God’s perfect time—not man’s.
Jesus came not in a season of revival, but one of spiritual decay. There had been 400 years of prophetic silence since Malachi—the last prophet of the Old Testament (Malachi 4:5–6). Religion had become ritualistic, the priesthood corrupt, and the Temple a marketplace.
Luke 16:14 (ESV) “The Pharisees, who were lovers of money, heard all these things, and they ridiculed him.”
Jesus directly condemned the religious leaders of His day:
Matthew 23:27–28 (ESV) “Woe to you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! For you are like whitewashed tombs, which outwardly appear beautiful, but within are full of dead people’s bones and all uncleanness.”
The system that was meant to guide people to God had become a barrier instead.
Despite the widespread apostasy, a faithful remnant remained—men and women who still believed in the promises of God.
Luke 2:36–38 (ESV) “…She did not depart from the temple, worshiping with fasting and prayer night and day… she began to give thanks to God and to speak of him to all who were waiting for the redemption of Jerusalem.”
A widow for 84 years, Anna chose to dedicate her life to prayer and intercession, embodying the spirit of perseverance in hope (Romans 12:12).
Luke 2:25–26 (ESV) “Now there was a man in Jerusalem, whose name was Simeon, and this man was righteous and devout, waiting for the consolation of Israel… and it had been revealed to him by the Holy Spirit that he would not see death before he had seen the Lord’s Christ.”
These two are archetypes of the Church awaiting Christ’s second coming—faithful, watchful, and Spirit-led.
Just as many missed the Messiah’s first coming, many will also be unprepared for His return.
1 Thessalonians 5:2 (ESV) “For you yourselves are fully aware that the day of the Lord will come like a thief in the night.”
Jesus Himself said:
Matthew 24:37–39 (ESV) “For as were the days of Noah, so will be the coming of the Son of Man… they were unaware until the flood came and swept them all away, so will be the coming of the Son of Man.”
Only those who are watchful and spiritually awake—like Anna and Simeon—will recognize the signs of His coming.
The same conditions that marked Jesus’ first advent—spiritual apathy, religious corruption, and cultural mockery—are prevalent again today.
2 Timothy 3:1–5 (ESV) “But understand this, that in the last days there will come times of difficulty. For people will be lovers of self, lovers of money… having the appearance of godliness, but denying its power.”
2 Peter 3:3–4 (ESV) “…scoffers will come in the last days with scoffing… They will say, ‘Where is the promise of his coming?’”
Yet, for those who continue to watch and pray, Jesus will not come as a thief but as a Bridegroom for His ready Bride (Matthew 25:1–13).
Beloved, if you are among those still watching for His return—do not lose heart.
Romans 13:11 (ESV) “For salvation is nearer to us now than when we first believed.”
Keep your eyes on Christ. The days may be dark, but these are the very times God chooses to work.
Luke 21:28 (ESV) “Now when these things begin to take place, straighten up and raise your heads, because your redemption is drawing near.”
Don’t be among those who sleep or scoff. Be like Anna. Be like Simeon. Stay alert. Stay holy. Keep your lamp burning.
2 Peter 1:10 (ESV) “Therefore, brothers, be all the more diligent to confirm your calling and election, for if you practice these qualities you will never fall.”
Jesus came as a tender shoot, unnoticed by most. He will return just as quietly—for those who are truly ready.
Don’t be caught unaware. Prepare your heart now. Let your life reflect His coming.
Amen. Even so, come, Lord Jesus. (Revelation 22:20)
May God bless you richly.
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