Caroling the Christmas Story: 'Come, Thou Long Expected Jesus'

Caroling the Christmas Story: 'Come, Thou Long Expected Jesus'

4 Key Points

1. Advent waiting is active, not passive.

Like Haggai’s community and Simeon in the Temple, Advent teaches us to lean forward with expectation. Waiting is a spiritual discipline that shapes our vision for God’s work in the world.

2. God fills our “emptiness” with God’s own presence.

Haggai names the people’s condition as ḥāser — always coming up short. God responds by promising to fill the Temple with kābôd — glory, weight, presence. We do not carry life’s burdens alone; God’s presence fills what feels empty or unfinished.

3. God is at work even when we can’t yet see the fullness.

Haggai reminds the people, “I am with you.” Simeon embodies trust in that promise, waiting faithfully until the Messiah is revealed in unexpected form—a child.

4. Our hope shapes our action.

Just as Wesley’s hymn was born from seeing suffering and longing for justice, Advent hope moves us to compassion, generosity, and service. These are our “Simeon moments,” glimpses of God’s restoration breaking into the world.

4 Reflection Questions

1. Where do I sense that my life feels like “a bag full of holes” — places of weariness, fear, or feeling ḥāser?

And how might God be seeking to fill that space with kābôd — with real presence?**

2. What foundations has God already laid in my life, my family, or our congregation?

And how am I being invited to build upon them?

3. In what situation am I being called not to rush, but to wait faithfully like Simeon — active, alert, expectant?

4. Where have I recently caught a glimpse of God’s restoration — big or small — that encourages me to keep hoping and serving?