In 1983, a movie premiered that soon became a Christmas classic across America.  A Christmas Story tells the tale of Ralphie, a young boy who wants nothing more than a Red Ryder© b-b gun for Christmas.  The movie unfolds as Ralphie tries to convince his mother, a teacher and even Santa Claus that this is the ideal present for him.  At each turn Ralphie’s request is rejected, with the same admonishment, “You’ll shoot your eye out.”  Despite these set backs, Ralphie never gives up hope that Christmas morning will deliver him the object of his desire.

So it is on Christmas that Ralphie flies down the stairs, tossing aside wrapped presents left and right.  He digs into the pile of gifts looking for a box that might contain his coveted rifle.  After opening everything else, Ralphie finally discovers the long, rectangular box that contains the Red Ryder© rifle.

I don’t enjoy this movie because of the fine acting, cinematography or script.  What I enjoy most about it is the connection nearly every child has with Christmas.  Most of us, at some point, looked forward to Christmas with that same longing.  Many of us can remember a Christmas where we wanted one gift more than anything else, we can identify with Ralphie’s quest to receive that gift.  That expectation, the hope and the joy provide us with glimpses of Advent.

Advent is a time to remember the hope-filled expectation of the Messiah’s coming.  For generations the Israelites waited, longing for the Messiah.  They faced set backs—enslavement, oppression and defeat—yet they maintained their hope that one day Messiah would come.  When he came, he would usher in the time of a New Covenant, when all of God’s promises would be fulfilled.  He would save them from sin, condemnation and slavery.

While Christmas is not about trees, gifts and such, childlike anticipation and joy recall the anticipation and joy of Christ’s first Advent.  In a few weeks we will again celebrate the greatest gift ever given.  May you capture the anticipation and hope of Advent as you prepare for Christmas morning.