King of Hope: Do You Know Him?

As we step into the Advent season, it’s a time of reflection, celebration, and anticipation. Amid Christmas festivities—decorating trees, choosing favorite holiday movies, and exchanging gifts—we are invited to focus on a central question: Who is Jesus, and do we truly know Him?

Knowing About Jesus vs. Knowing Jesus

In the classic holiday film Elf, Buddy's unshakable excitement stems from something the others didn’t fully grasp: Buddy knew Santa personally. This whimsical comparison highlights a deeper truth about faith. Many people know about Jesus, but the real question is, do you know Him?

Knowing Jesus means going beyond facts and familiarity; it means experiencing the hope and life that He brings. In Colossians 1:15–23, Paul paints a vivid portrait of Jesus as the King of Hope. This passage answers three key questions:

1. Who is Jesus?
2. What has Jesus done?
3. What does this mean for us?

Who is Jesus?

Jesus is more than a historical figure or a religious leader. Paul declares:

• He is the image of the invisible God (Colossians 1:15).
• He is before all things, and in Him, all things hold together (1:17).
• He is the head of the church, the beginning, and the firstborn from the dead (1:18).

Jesus embodies God's fullness and preeminence, revealing the Creator to creation and holding the universe together by His power.

What Has Jesus Done?

Through Jesus:

• All things were created, visible and invisible (Colossians 1:16).
• Peace was made through His blood shed on the cross (1:20).
• He reconciled us to Himself, presenting us holy, blameless, and above reproach (1:22).

Jesus' death and resurrection brought hope to humanity, bridging the gap between us and God.

What About Us?

Paul reminds us of our former state—alienated and hostile toward God. Yet, through Jesus' sacrifice, we are brought into reconciliation, invited to live in hope. This hope requires steadfast faith, as Paul encourages us to remain unshaken, grounded in the gospel (Colossians 1:23).

Advent: A Season of Hope

This season allows us to reflect on the hope Jesus brings, not only for this life but for eternity. The hope of King Jesus is captured beautifully in Isaiah’s prophecy, fulfilled in Christ: “In His name the Gentiles will hope” (Matthew 12:21). This promise extends to all who believe, offering us hope that transcends circumstance.

That’s My King! Do You Know Him?

Nearly 20 years ago, S.M. Lockridge delivered a powerful sermon titled That’s My King, describing the magnificence of Jesus in a way that stirs the heart and lifts the soul. His words echo this Advent season’s invitation: to not only recognize Jesus as the King of Hope but to know Him personally.

As we prepare for Christmas, let us reflect on the unmatched hope Jesus offers. He is the King who reconciles, restores, and reigns. May this Advent season draw us closer to Him and deepen our understanding of His love and grace.

That’s my King—do you know Him?