Saturday, December 24
Isaiah 44:21-45:13, 20-25, Daniel 10:1-12:13, Isaiah 48:1-22, and Revelation 12:1-17
Today marks the final day of our Advent journey. Throughout these weeks, we’ve had the opportunity to reflect upon the Advent anticipation in our lives, looking with hope to the arrival of our Savior. It is December 24, Christmas Eve. Maybe you are reading this early in the day before the hustle and bustle. Perhaps this is the final moment in your day, as you look back over all that has happened. Did you forget anything that you had hoped to do – a gift to buy, a dessert to make, a card to send? If you’re like me, the answer is probably a resounding “Yes!”
Through the dark days of December—and for students and faculty, the challenging end to a tough semester—it is easy to not only forget, but also to feel forgotten. Where is God when I need Him? Why does it seem like He doesn’t care? Undoubtedly, the nation of Israel felt forgotten through the dark times. They knew the Messiah promise, and yet they waited a long time. You also may be waiting for a long time, for a lot of things.
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 forget us. In love, He has sent a Redeemer: born of a virgin, born in Bethlehem, born to save the world. Truly, He is the long-expected Jesus.
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).
In Advent, we anticipate the arrival of our Savior in our lives. As we wait with eager expectation, may we celebrate the truth that we are not forgotten.
You are loved and chosen. You are remembered and not forgotten. Come, Lord Jesus!
REV. DR. RYAN PETERSON
Vice President of Administration, CUAA
About this series
“Advent Anticipation: the arrival 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.