Read Psalm 89:1-4
We can never hear these words too many times. God is faithful forever, and his love for us will never end. That is the best news! It doesn’t matter if we’re stuck in traffic, wondering how we’re going to pay the bills, or trying to make a big life decision. God is right there beside us, always faithful.
What a great Advent theme of praise for us to dwell in God’s unfailing love. Sending Jesus was an act of that great love playing out for all to see. It wasn’t a random act or baseless whim. God’s intention was brewing centuries before Jesus came to fulfill these words of the psalmist. The psalmist wasn’t sharing new information either. God had made this promise to King David of a never-ending dynasty. Neither David nor the psalmist knew it would be Jesus, the Son of God.
How does it make you feel to see prophecy fulfilled and God’s promises come true? For us waiting with expectant hearts for Jesus’ return, the assurance of promises being kept by God is good news indeed. Waiting can be hard, and being ready for Jesus return is a way of life for believers. It could be tomorrow; it could be for future generations to behold.
The joy of anticipation we muster is what sustains us. Life is hard and messy and full of drama. When we start to feel overwhelmed or stressed by our circumstance, we need only remember what we’re waiting for is so much bigger than our earthly concerns. Those will pass away. But God’s faithfulness and his love for us goes on forever. Forever.
Praise. The psalmist is calling us to praise our loving LORD. As I think of all the Christmas carols I hear playing this time of year, I marvel at the praise going on. This marvelous season of the year has it’s own playlist of music we lovingly dig out each year and listen to like an old friend. The words of the carols are rich, and even sometimes a little confusing. Take it from me, a music teacher to young children in countless Christmas pageants over the years!
Take some time today to reflect on the words of your favorite Christmas carol as your gift of praise to the promised infant King.
Let’s pray. Lord, I stand amazed yet again at how you have worked out everything so perfectly to keep your promises. Thank you for sending Jesus to fulfill your promise to David. You are faithful forever and love us no matter what. Forgive me for the times I have disappointed you with my words or actions. Thank you for that thrill of hope that causes this weary world to rejoice. I do fall on my knees before you and ask you to fill me with what I’ll need to serve you. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
