Advent: With Bated Breath

Bated breath. A moment suspended in time. Bated means to lessen or diminish. It also means to moderate or restrain. There were two pivotal times where the weary world waited with bated breath - unbeknownst to them of the greatest miracle in time.

That first time can be found in the city of Bethlehem. The world was going about their busy day. A census had been taken and they were rushing to the city to fulfill their obligations. Everyone was probably weary from their journey. We know two people were - Mary and Joseph.

Mary and Joseph waited with bated breath. They waited for an end to the circumstances of a pregnancy outside of wedlock. Then, as they journeyed, with Mary in the final stages of pregnancy to the demanded census in Bethlehem.  Arriving, they once again found themselves with little hope as they were placed in a smelly stable to give birth.

They didn’t understand the full significance of that moment. The restraint, worry, diminishing was from seeing their present circumstances. That bated breath turned into a miracle. A brand new life that would become the Savior of the world - Jesus. A time when hope & breaths shouldn’t be bated - rather hope should come alive.

Fast forward to another time of bated breath when Jesus brought hope alive. A busy city full of men demanding crucifixion of a man. Eleven men waited with bated breath knowing the worst was to come. Their friend was to be crucified, while the world around them celebrated! Two women wept with bated breath. They didn’t know what was to come…

The next instance a crucifixion and death occurred. There wasn’t even bated breath - rather all hope was lost. A burial came thanks to the generosity of one man. After that there was a sadness all around - until the third day. That day brought an empty tomb and new life! The baby Jesus that was born had died and was brought back to life. The impossible happened! This is why we celebrate during this Advent season and Christmas.

Maybe you and the rest of this world are waiting with bated breath. Waiting for a miracle, but thinking the world is too far gone. Instead, exchange the restraint for a God who takes the impossible and makes miracles. Read Luke 2 (the Christmas Story) and Luke 23 - 24 (the Easter Story) to ignite hope in a Risen Savior and God of miracles in your life!