Advent Reflections – Page 7

December 14 When God Lives Among Us (Zephaniah 3:14-20)

Hand doing the "OK" motion with sunshine streaming through the open "o"

Oh, what a day that will be when God comes to live among us! He already sent his son, Jesus to do just that all those years ago. That’s what we celebrate in less than two weeks. God incarnate. God lived among us as one of us! Not only was he 100% God, but he was also 100% human.

I know, the math doesn’t add up, but in God’s economy, it makes perfect sense. God can do even more than we can imagine. Our minds can’t even comprehend. It’s with that awe and gratitude I want to make the most of this day, this gift God has given me.

December 13 Hope (Isaiah 35:1-10)

Read Isaiah 35:1-10

The words HOPE endures with a butterfly image behind

What a beautiful prophecy! Isaiah delivered this hope of restoration just in time. The first 34 chapters of the book of Isaiah delivered the message of judgment on both Israel and Judah for rejecting God. These positive words would have been like a breath of fresh air.

Yet there are still many today who reject God for one reason or another. It’s tragic. I can’t imagine walking through this life without God by my side. Not to experience the hope, the joy, and the unconditional love would leave such an empty place.

December 12 Revive Us! (Psalm 85:1-13)

Read Psalm 85:1-13

woman standing in a field of yellow flowers with her hands in the air, looking heavenward with a smile on her face

Are you feeling a bit weary? Have all the holiday preparations temporarily taken control of your life? Are you ready for a little injection of hope to revive you?

Perhaps the opening verses of this psalm will help you. Meditate on the message here for you. “LORD, you poured out blessings on your land! You restored the fortunes of Israel. You forgave the guilt of your people—yes, you covered all their sins.” Look around. We can see God’s blessings everywhere.

December 11 Refined in the Fire (Malachi 3:1-4)

Read Malachi 3:1-4

Isaiah wasn’t the only one who hinted about a messenger to announce the Messiah. I was a little confused at first, but did you notice there are two messengers in the first verse? John the Baptist and Jesus are both here. The prophet Malachi speaks God’s words, “The messenger of the covenant, whom you look for so eagerly, is surely coming.” I am holding on to that truth for dear life!

Malachi’s overall message is that despite our sinfulness, we have hope. Forgiveness is available. That is grace! Yet Malachi addresses the elephant in the room and asks, “But who will be able to endure it when he comes? Who will be able to stand and face him when he appears?” Are you feeling ready for Christ’s return?

December 10 Prepare the Way (Mark 1:1-8)

Read Mark 1:1-8

silhouette of a man and a woman kneeling at the foot of a cross with a sunset in the background

I love how the Gospel of Mark starts right here, with John’s ministry preparing the way. When is the last time you asked yourself, “how am I showing up for Jesus?” When people look at you, do they see Jesus at all?

Since none of us really know what Jesus’ looks like physically, although he’s been depicted in all sorts of ways over the years, we know what he looks like in behavior and character. That’s what I’m talking about here. How much did John really know about his cousin Jesus before he started preaching?