As the Christmas season unfolds, so does the transformation of our homes into festive environments. The Christmas tree, which is often the centre-piece of this holiday transformation, starts bare and gradually comes to life with decorations. But as long as the bottom of the tree remains empty, the scene is not complete.

The placement of presents under the tree adds a distinct layer. As each gift is wrapped and placed, Christmas draws closer, building anticipation, and creating a visual countdown for Christmas morning.

Although the Christmas tree has no origins in the original Christmas story; a tradition that was taken over by Christianity years ago, it can still serve as a pointer. How so? Bear with me.

The Biblical Tradition of Anticipation

While the occasional strategic placement of gifts under the Christmas tree may not be a biblical tradition, it mirrors the way God strategically placed prophecies throughout the Old Testament, gradually revealing His plan for salvation.

There are over 300 prophecies, woven throughout the ancient Scriptures, which served as gifts of hope for the People of Israel, foretelling the arrival of the Messiah, Jesus Christ. We too should cling to these gifts as we take an Advent journey toward celebrating this pivotal event.

The Prophetic Gifts of Hope

There are many prophets whom God spoke through found in our Scripture. However, the prophet Isaiah played a significant role in emphasizing hope through his Messianic prophecies. Let’s unwrap some of his prophetic gifts of hope and see how they continue to impact us today.

1. Immanuel – “God with Us” (Isaiah 7:14):
   • Isaiah’s prophecy about the virgin conceiving and bearing a son serves as a foundational scripture, emphasizing the miraculous nature of Jesus’ birth.
   • While initially meant for Israel, this prophecy remains relevant, offering us hope in the perpetual presence of God amidst life’s challenges.
2. Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace (Isaiah 9:6-7):
   • Isaiah’s vision of a coming Messiah with divine titles assures Israel of a leader who will bring wisdom, strength, eternal fatherhood, and everlasting peace.
   • In our modern world marked by turmoil, this prophecy remains a source of hope, directing our focus to Jesus as our Wonderful Counselor and Prince of Peace.
3. Shoot from the Stump of Jesse (Isaiah 11:1-2):
   • Isaiah envisions new growth in Israel, symbolized by a shoot from Jesse’s stump, connecting Jesus to the Davidic line.
   • This prophecy provides hope, assuring us that Jesus, as the promised and righteous ruler, will continue to reign with justice and righteousness.

Approaching Christmas, Embracing Prophecy

As we approach Christmas, consider these steps to deepen your connection with the prophetic gifts of hope:

1. Reflect on the Prophetic Gifts:
   • Dedicate time to read through Isaiah 7 to 11, seeking out the subtle gifts of hope strategically placed by God.
2. Record the Prophetic Gifts:
   • Make note of the prophecies and how they have been fulfilled, connecting the words spoken in the Scriptures to the realization of these promises.
3. Retrieve the Prophetic Gifts:
   • Revisit your notes as Christmas draws near, allowing the prophetic gifts of hope to guide your reflections and focus on the fundamental purposes ordained by God.

The prophetic gifts of hope, carefully placed throughout the Old Testament, continue to impact our lives today. As we unwrap these gifts and reflect on their fulfillment in Jesus, may our anticipation of Christmas deepen, reminding us that there is no greater gift than Jesus.

In celebrating the birth of Christ, let us not only embrace it as a historical event but as the advent of our Savior, echoing the joy that permeates the Christmas season.