No, we declare God’s wisdom, a mystery that has been hidden and that God destined for our glory before time began. None of the rulers of this age understood it, for if they had, they would not have crucified the Lord of glory. However, as it is written, “What no eye has seen, what no ear has heard, and what no human mind has conceived” — the things God has prepared for those who love him—these are the things God has revealed to us by his Spirit.

I Corinthians 2:7-10 NIV

Christmas morning long ago, God’s Son, the Living Word of God, was born in a stable. Although angels proclaimed the birth to shepherds in the area, and a star drew the attention of some wise men, most of the world was not aware of the miracle which took place. People went on with their lives – working, praying, hoping, suffering, dying.

Simeon and Anna were probably saying their nightly prayers – waiting. Simon, Andrew, James and John were young men learning the fishing trade and may have been sleeping – fishermen get up pretty early. Matthew may have been considering becoming a tax collector to ease his family’s financial burdens. John the Baptist, a baby himself, was likely eating, crying, or sleeping.

These people, whose lives were to be dramatically impacted by the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ, did not know what God had in store for their lives.

This morning I woke up thinking about them – and us. We don’t have the full picture of the will and purposes of God and often think he’s not working, not listening, not caring to respond to our pleas. And as the struggles continue, we’re tempted to grow weary and to lose hope.

But our God is so good. He’s given us his word and his Spirit to remind us he has a bigger plan. He not only knows what we’re going through, but he’s actively at work on our behalf – even when we don’t see it, don’t feel it.

As Paul says in I Corinthians, our eyes have yet to fully see and our minds have yet to fully understand all God has destined for our glory before time began.

Two thousand years ago, the long-anticipated Messiah humbly came into the world as a baby, and they didn’t know. But we do!

God is at work in our lives, and it’s all good. Be encouraged with me this morning and persevere with this hope in mind.

For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. Then you will call on me and come and pray to me, and I will listen to you.  You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart. Jeremiah 29:11-13 NIV

He’s coming back!