Our Advent journey continues, and we’ll be encountering more prophecies this week. Did you recognize the first few verses of Isaiah’s prophecy? When Jesus preached in his hometown of Nazareth, he was given the scroll of Isaiah, and the text he read was the first two verses of our reading (see Luke 4:16-21).
How profound it must have been for Jesus to read those words, speaking about himself. This prophecy is another example of a refreshing message speaking about both Jesus’ first coming and his return. In other words, it speaks of restoration, both spiritual and physical. The physical has yet to happen completely, but the spiritual was our awakening or transformation into followers of Jesus.
Many Advent texts point to dark moments in history, helping us remember and appreciate where we are today. The 3rd week of Advent ushers in a new theme of “joy.” If your church uses an Advent wreath during this season, you may have noticed a pink candle this week. It signifies a shift from reflecting on our readiness for Christ, which often involves repentance, to rejoicing that we can celebrate Jesus soon.
Isaiah promises, “You will possess a double portion of prosperity in your land, and everlasting joy will be yours.” Everlasting joy has a nice ring to it! Prosperity sounds good, too. As I look around, I see so many blessings. I may not drive a new car or live in a posh neighborhood. We don’t have to have worldly wealth to experience the prosperity of God’s goodness and mercy.
Do you think Isaiah wondered about what his messages meant? He certainly felt the joy as he said, “I am overwhelmed with joy in the Lord my God! For he has dressed me with the clothing of salvation and draped me in a robe of righteousness.” The word salvation brings to mind for me Jesus’ sacrifice and resurrection. Righteousness is that place we all want to take so we’re close and right with God. God has prepared all of this for us to claim. We, too, should be overwhelmed with joy.
Don’t mistake joy for happiness. I’ve spoken to this distinction before. Joy comes from the Lord, not our happy feelings. Our happiness can quickly fade or be replaced by sadness due to life’s circumstances. Joy can co-exist with both happiness and sadness so long as we think about our salvation and righteousness as Isaiah did.
If you’re going through a rough patch or know someone who is, this reminder about joy comes at a perfect time. Maybe you’re estranged from loved ones or spending Christmas away from family (like we are). The joy of the LORD can be the perfect remedy. Nehemiah 8:10 says, “Go and celebrate with a feast of rich foods and sweet drinks, and share gifts of food with people who have nothing prepared. This is a sacred day before our Lord. Don’t be dejected and sad, for the joy of the Lord is your strength!” (See more about what was happening to Nehemiah.)
It’s hard to imagine a world where everyone is praising the Sovereign Lord as this prophecy suggests in verse 11. Philippians 4:4 is a great verse to commit to memory. “Always be full of joy in the Lord. I say it again—rejoice!”
Let’s pray. Lord, thank you for how joy wells up inside me when I think about my salvation. Thank you for these words of prophecy spoken so many years ago with the promise of restoration. A new day and a new opportunity are dawning. There is so much potential lying ahead of me. How will you use me today? Help me set aside all distractions so I can spend quality time with you and truly relish your presence. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
