When the Advent season begins, it’s as if the air fills with anticipation. It’s a season of waiting—not a passive or despairing wait but one rooted in hope. It’s the kind of waiting that steadies the heart, even when life feels uncertain. Revelation 5:5 offers a powerful reminder of why we can wait with confident expectation: “Then one of the elders said to me, ‘Do not weep! See, the Lion of the tribe of Judah, the Root of David, has triumphed. He is able to open the scroll and its seven seals’” (NIV).

This verse captures a piercing moment of reassurance. In John’s vision, the scroll expresses God’s redemptive plan for creation—a plan no one seemed worthy to fulfill. But then the Lion of Judah steps forward. Christ, in His strength and majesty, is not only worthy but victorious.‍

Not Safe, but Good‍

C.S. Lewis portrays the tension of Christ’s character so gracefully in his book The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe. When a talking beaver (aptly named Mr. Beaver) speaks of the book’s hero, Aslan the great Lion, he warns, “’Course he isn’t safe. But he’s good. He’s the King, I tell you.”

Christmas is a time to remember this truth: Jesus was a baby born in humble means, vulnerable and approachable—but the story doesn’t end there! He’s also the mighty King who reigns with power and authority. This duality is the source of our hope! He’s strong enough to conquer sin and death yet compassionate enough to carry us through every trial. In Christ we find the lion’s fierce strength and the shepherd’s tender care.‍

Hope for Today‍

In a world filled with brokenness, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed when we face the waiting and weariness it may bring. But our hope is secure because Jesus Christ, the Lion of Judah, has already triumphed. His victory is not a distant promise; it’s a present reality. The King went to Bethlehem, lived among the people, and then defeated sin and death on the cross—for everyone. Today, He reigns in our hearts through the Holy Spirit. And one day, He will return in glory, completing God’s perfect plan of redemption, renewal, and restoration!

So, what do we do in our season of waiting? We hold onto hope:

• Hope that we will see God’s promises fulfilled.

• Hope that we will experience how His power is greater than our fears and failures.

• Hope that His goodness will sustain us through every season.

This Christmas, let the Lion loose in your life! Trust in His strength to defend and guide you. Open your heart to the King whose wild, untamable love will transform everything it touches.‍

Prayer‍

Lord, thank You for the hope we find in Christ, the Lion of Judah. As we wait this Advent season, remind us of Your strength and goodness. Help us trust in Your triumph and live boldly in the light of Your victory. In Jesus’ name, Amen.