December 3
"The days are surely coming, says the Lord, when I will fulfill the promise I made to the house of Israel and the house of Judah. In those days and at that time I will cause a righteous Branch to spring up for David; and he shall execute justice and righteousness in the land. In those days Judah will be saved and Jerusalem will live in safety. And this is the name by which it will be called: 'The Lord is our righteousness.'" -Jeremiah 33:14-16
In dark days and frightening times, we all need hope. December can be a stressful time for many of us with extra demands, taxes due, dark days, flu season, and the reality of bitterly cold weather bringing unexpected snow storms or blizzards. Jeremiah also lived in dark days when he made his powerful prophecy of a coming Messiah over 2,000 years ago. However no matter how hopeless our circumstances, this Advent Season offers us an invitation to meditate on the promises of God. Here is what God's prophet, Jeremiah, saw and predicted:
1. A righteous leader will spring up.
2. A Messiah will come bringing justice and righteousness.
3. This Savior will bring salvation and safety for all people.
If we are alert to the promises of the Lord in his Word and live in the Light of Hope, we can be blessed beyond comprehension. This can allow Christ to come afresh again in our hearts and more deeply into our lives. How then can you today live as one who believes that the promises of God will be fulfilled? You can make a choice to take time daily for God and seek to find creative ways to do the following in this sacred season:
1. Lift up your heart and soul to God in prayer and gratitude;
2. Seek to live in the Light of Hope rather than pessimism.
3. Work for justice and righteousness;
4. Walk a path of love and faithfulness.
Prayer: Lord, I lift up my soul to you. In Christ I trust. Teach me your ways, O God of my salvation. May I light an Advent Candle of Hope today rather than fearing the darkness! Amen
Meditation For The Day: Light an Advent Candle of Hope today!
Brief Devotions For Busy Lives: Daily Winter Renewal Paperback – November 25, 2017, by Rev. Dr. Mary Johnson (Author)
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