The Advent season is a time of waiting, longing, and anticipation—but how do we respond when the waiting is over? In this sermon from Matthew 2, we explore the responses of three groups to the birth of Jesus: the fear of Herod and Jerusalem, the apathy of the chief priests, and the joyful worship of the Magi. What do their reactions reveal about our own hearts during seasons of waiting?

Pastor Clarence challenges us to build anticipation for Christ—whether it’s reflecting on the miracle of His birth, trusting Him in our waiting, or preparing for His promised return. Let this message guide you toward a posture of joy, worship, and readiness as we respond to the good news of Jesus.

What happens when hope feels deferred? When the weight of sin, corruption, and brokenness seems unending, how do we endure?

Drawing from Micah 7 and the timeless questions posed in Langston Hughes’ A Dream Deferred, this message dives deep into the tension of waiting—waiting for justice, restoration, and the coming of our Savior. Like Micah, we see a society marked by disunity, corruption, and despair. And yet, Micah’s response is one of hope: “But as for me, I watch in hope for the Lord, I wait for God my Savior; my God will hear me” (Micah 7:7).

This Advent season, we celebrate the first coming of Jesus while anchoring ourselves in anticipation of His return. As we endure, we do so with purpose—sharing the gospel, shining His light, and standing firm in the promise that God will come and He will act.

Waiting can be one of the hardest parts of life. Zechariah and Elizabeth waited years for a child, and when God finally answered through an angel, Zechariah’s response was, “How can I be sure?” Waiting wore down his confidence—just like it does for us. But Psalm 27 shows us a different way to wait: with confidence in God. David declares, “The Lord is my light, my salvation, and my stronghold.” Even in the tension of waiting for deliverance, David trusted God fully. How can we wait like David?

1️⃣ Seek God’s presence—desire Him above all else.

2️⃣ Behold His beauty—fix your eyes on the character of Jesus.

3️⃣ Follow His guidance—let God’s Word lead, not fear or worry.

4️⃣ Keep talking—stay close to God, even when the waiting feels heavy.

This Advent season reminds us: the same God who ended Zechariah’s waiting and sent Jesus as Israel’s Messiah will meet us in our waiting. Through Christ, God is our light in the darkness, our salvation in trouble, and our stronghold in every storm. “Wait for the Lord; be strong and take heart.”

– Psalm 27:14 Whatever you’re waiting for, you can trust that God is with you. Keep seeking Him, and let His presence restore your confidence.