One of the great things about this time of year is that
many Christians who do not have a positive
eschatology, sing as if they do. Take Joy to the World,
for instance. “Let earth receive her King,” and “He
rules the world,” sound very much in line with a more
reformed and positive eschatology. You’ll also find
similar positive sentiments in carols such as O Holy
Night, God Rest Ye Merry, Gentlemen, and many more.
This is right and proper, and a great opportunity and reminder for us. We’ve been rightly focused lately on tyranny, mask mandates, the bloodshed of abortion, and other perversions which plague our land. And we do indeed have much work we have been called to. But during Advent and Christmastide, let us not lose sight of this simple truth: Christ already won. He’s ruling and reigning right now on His throne. He calls us to work here on earth on His behalf because of that very authority which He wields. His foes (and, therefore, our foes) are being defeated before us. The very gates of hell cannot prevail against us. And why? Because, as the Sussex Carol tells us:
On Christmas night all Christians sing To hear the news the angels bring News of great joy, news of great mirth News of our merciful King’s birth
Christ was born into this world. And by doing so, He already won. He’s the triumphant King, born in a lowly stable. And because of that, whatever ills may befall us, we serve at His pleasure, and we live in blessed hope which we display to a watching world.