Monday, December 18
Isaiah 34:1-2, 8-35:10, Micah 1:1-7:20, and Revelation 6:1-1
Every year I find myself reflecting during the Advent season. While Advent is supposed to be a time of waiting and anticipation, I am always in a state of reflection. I find it extremely humbling and inspiring to reflect on the goodness and omnipresence of God. In that reflection also comes a sense of urgency and anticipation of what is to come – the birth of Jesus Christ and all that will bring.
As you and I look back on the last year, it may be easy to find celebrations and count our blessings. It is likely equally convenient to find challenges, loss, and times of struggle. Celebrating or mourning with loved ones can be a blessed time to support and encourage one another as well. While we experience and grieve loss, as I have in the past year, it gives us an opportunity to anticipate. In Christ’s second coming, all believers will be reunited with loved ones that have gone before us. Jesus will be fully present in those joyous reunions, and it is joyful to anticipate those future celebrations!
In the reading from Isaiah, we reflect upon Christ’s second coming and what that day will look like. Say to those with an anxious heart; Be strong; fear not! Behold, your God will come with vengeance, with the recompense of God. He will come and save you… that the ransomed of the Lord shall return and they shall obtain gladness and joy, and sorrow and sighing shall flee away (Isaiah 34:4, 35:10)
We should take great comfort in these verses as we consider that tomorrow. There will be no more suffering or loss. Christ’s victory over death gives us confidence that our eternal hope is secure in His name and by what He has done.
While we anticipate the birth of Christ this Advent season and the celebrations to come, we remember also that He is with us even now. If a burden of this past year feels too all-consuming for you to reflect upon His love and our heavenly homecoming, ask in prayer for the Holy Spirit to meet you in this moment. Take time to reflect on his mercies and grace that are ours eternally through Christ’s death and resurrection.
KYLE THOMS
Admissions, CUAA
About this series
“God With Us: the uncommon advent of our Savior” is a sampling of biblical meditations composed by members of the CUWAA community. It is our prayer that you will take time during the Advent season to read and reflect upon God’s Word and await the coming of Jesus with newfound enthusiasm and anticipation through the Holy Spirit.