Today is the first Sunday of Advent. And we’re beginning a new Advent sermon series this week called “Great Expectation.” In this series, we are going to be reflecting on passages from the Old Testament that anticipate the coming of the Messiah. The Rescue and Rule by a David-like King who would establish a God-honoring kingdom that included both Israel and the Gentiles was the ancient longing and hope of God’s people, Israel. And that’s the expectation that Christians believe was fulfilled in Jesus, two thousand years ago in Palestine.
With this first message, I want to reflect on how the season of Advent gives us space to worship God in an unexpected way. I’ve entitled this message: “Advent & Lament.”