The first time...and the next time.

The first time, He came in obscurity, in a small out-of-the-way part of the world.
The next time, He will come in such a way that all the tribes on earth will see him.

The first time, He came as a helpless baby.
The next time, He will come as a victorious King.

The first time, His coming was celebrated only by animals & a few shepherds here on earth.
The next time, every knee will bow and every tongue will confess.

The first time had been anticipated, prayed for, and dreamed of by patriarchs & prophets for centuries.
The next time has been anticipated, prayed for, and dreamed of by peasants & pastors for centuries...(and by a rather obscure Business school professor in south Mississippi for several decades now.)

The first time ended in an amazing way when what appeared to be a total defeat was turned around by the total triumph of a resurrection.
The second time will be even more amazing, because there will be no doubt.

He came once.  He's coming again.  I can't wait! 

Merry Christmas!
Mike

p.s. - "For the mountains may depart and the hills be removed,
but my steadfast love shall not depart from you,
and my covenant of peace shall not be removed,”
says the Lord, who has compassion on you."
(Isaiah 54:10 ESV)