Anticipation and preparation are themes woven throughout the biblical narrative, reflecting the human response to divine promises and commands. These concepts are integral to understanding the relationship between God and His people, as they often involve faith, obedience, and readiness for future events ordained by God.

Old Testament Context

In the Old Testament, anticipation is frequently linked to the promises of God, particularly those concerning the coming of the Messiah and the establishment of His kingdom. The patriarchs, such as Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, lived in anticipation of the fulfillment of God's covenant promises. Hebrews 11:10 speaks of Abraham: "For he was looking forward to the city with foundations, whose architect and builder is God."

Preparation is exemplified in the life of Noah, who, in obedience to God's command, prepared an ark in anticipation of the coming flood. Genesis 6:22 states, "So Noah did everything precisely as God had commanded him." This act of preparation was a demonstration of faith and obedience, serving as a model for future generations.

The Israelites' preparation for the Passover in Exodus 12 is another significant example. They were instructed to prepare a lamb and mark their doorposts with its blood, anticipating their deliverance from Egypt. This act of preparation was both a physical and spiritual readiness for God's intervention.

New Testament Context

In the New Testament, anticipation and preparation are central to the teachings of Jesus and the apostles. The anticipation of the Messiah's coming is fulfilled in Jesus Christ, yet His teachings often focus on the anticipation of His return and the establishment of God's kingdom.

Jesus' parables frequently emphasize the need for preparation. In the Parable of the Ten Virgins (Matthew 25:1-13), Jesus illustrates the importance of being prepared for His return: "Therefore keep watch, because you do not know the day or the hour" (Matthew 25:13). This parable underscores the necessity of spiritual readiness and vigilance.

The early church lived in anticipation of Christ's return, as seen in the writings of the apostles. Paul, in his letters, often encourages believers to prepare for the day of the Lord. In 1 Thessalonians 5:6 , he writes, "So then, let us not sleep as the others do, but let us remain awake and sober."

Practical Implications

For believers, anticipation and preparation are not passive states but active responses to God's promises and commands. They involve a life of faith, characterized by obedience, vigilance, and readiness. This is evident in the call to live holy and godly lives as we anticipate the return of Christ (2 Peter 3:11-12).

The practice of spiritual disciplines, such as prayer, study of Scripture, and fellowship with other believers, are means of preparation. These disciplines help believers remain steadfast in their faith and ready for the fulfillment of God's promises.

In summary, anticipation and preparation are vital aspects of the Christian life, rooted in the biblical narrative and exemplified by the faithful throughout Scripture. They call believers to live in a state of readiness, grounded in the hope of God's promises and the expectation of His future work.