Editor's note: "An uncommon Advent: the arrival of a Savior in our lives" is a sampling of biblical meditations composed by members of the Concordia University Ann Arbor and Wisconsin 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 anticipation and zeal through the Holy Spirit.
December 24 – Not forgotten
Isaiah 44:21-45:13, 20-25, Daniel 10:1-12:13, Isaiah 48:1-22, and Revelation 12:1-17
My personal plans for Christmas typically involve travel. Maybe yours are the same. Since our family lives out of state, we pack presents, Christmas clothes, casual clothes, put the roof top carrier on the top of the van, and travel (all six of us) to celebrate Christmas with our families. Undoubtedly, and always, we forget something. Don’t worry: we do not forget a child, but it is not uncommon for us to forget a gift or something special we were just waiting to share with someone else.
Through the dark days of December, and for students and faculty—the challenging end to a tough semester—it is easy to feel forgotten. Where is God when I need Him? Why am I going through this challenging time?Why does it seem like He does not care? Undoubtedly, the nation of Israel probably felt in the dark and forgotten. They knew the promise of a Messiah, and yet they waited. They waited a long time. You may feel like you have also been waiting for a long time.
Hear these words of Holy Scripture. Remember these things, O Jacob, and Israel, for you are my servant; I formed you; you are my servant; O Israel, you will not be forgotten by me(Isaiah 44:21). The one who created them, and has created us, does not let us fall to the side. He does not leave us behind.In love, He has sent a Redeemer: born of a virgin, born in Bethlehem, born to save the world. Truly, He is the Savior of the nations.
So, we sing and pray the common Advent hymn on this Christmas Eve, Come, Thou long-expected Jesus, Born to set Thy people free; From our fears and sins release us; Let us find our rest in Thee. Israel’s strength and consolation, Hope of all the earth Thou art, Dear desire of ev’ry nation, Joy of ev’ry longing heart (LSB 338, v. 1).
As we conclude this uncommon Advent and anticipate the arrival of a Savior in our lives, may we celebrate the truth that we are not forgotten. You are loved. You are remembered. You are His servant. We await the coming of our Lord. Come, Lord Jesus!
Rev. Dr. Ryan Peterson is the Vice President of Administration at Concordia University Ann Arbor and has served at the university since 2013. View a full schedule of “An uncommon Advent” readings here.
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