As the shepherds gazed on the tender face of Jesus the night he was born, they might have been unaware that prophets had spoken of his birth for centuries. He would be a king, descended from David, who would bring light to a dark world, blessing to the nations, and forgiveness to all who trusted in him. It was hard to see it that first Christmas night. But this baby, promised yet unexpected, would grow up to die on a cross and rise from the dead for our salvation. He was the Hope of the Ages and the Lamb of God who will be worshiped forever.