Let Earth Receive Her King: Reflections on Advent and the Kingdom of God

The Advent season invites us to reflect on profound truths that shape our faith and lives. From the Latin word adventus, meaning "arrival" or "coming," Advent marks a season of anticipation—not only for the birth of Christ but also for His promised return.

The Promise of a King

Advent begins with hope, one of its four themes alongside peace, joy, and love. As the first candle is lit, we remember the promises God made to His people, the expectation of a Messiah who would bring salvation. This longing echoes through history, from the cries of the Hebrew people to our modern yearning for redemption and restoration.

The kingdom of God is central to Jesus' message. To His first-century listeners, the idea of a kingdom often conjured visions of political power or military conquest. But Jesus revealed that His kingdom was not of this world (John 18:36). It was a kingdom rooted in truth, grace, and eternal hope.

A Kingdom of Hope

Hope was not merely an abstract ideal for Jesus' followers—it was embodied in the King Himself. In the face of Roman authority, Jesus declared the eternal sovereignty of God: "You would have no authority over me at all unless it had been given you from above" (John 19:11). This bold proclamation reflected the truth seen throughout Scripture, as in Daniel 4:17: "The Most High is sovereign over all kingdoms on earth and gives them to anyone he wishes."

Advent reminds us that this King, born in a manger, inaugurates a kingdom unlike any other. It is a kingdom where the meek inherit the earth, the peacemakers are called children of God, and the mourning are comforted. This is the better kingdom for which we long.

Living Between the Advents

Advent holds a tension between the "already" and the "not yet." Christ has come, fulfilling ancient prophecies and offering salvation. Yet we await His return, when He will make all things new (Revelation 21:1–5). This dual focus shapes our worship and our lives. We celebrate with joy the birth of our King, even as we yearn for the day when His kingdom will be fully realized.

In this waiting, we are called to live as citizens of God's kingdom. This means embodying its values—hope, peace, joy, and love—in our interactions, choices, and communities. It means proclaiming, through word and action, that Christ reigns even now.

Let Earth Receive Her King

As we journey through Advent, let us join the heavenly chorus in proclaiming, "Let earth receive her King!" May our hope in Christ inspire us to trust in His promises, to reflect His love, and to live as faithful subjects of His kingdom. And may we eagerly anticipate the day when every tear will be wiped away, and death will be no more.

This Advent, as you light each candle and meditate on the coming of Christ, let the reality of His kingdom transform your heart. The King has come. The King is coming again. Let every heart prepare Him room.