Wednesday, December 28, 2022  

Today’s Scripture Reading
Isaiah 63:7–9

I will recount the gracious deeds of the Lord, the praiseworthy acts of the Lord, because of all that the Lord has done for us, and the great favor to the house of Israel that he has shown them according to his mercy, according to the abundance of his steadfast love. For he said, “Surely they are my people, children who will not deal falsely”; and he became their savior in all their distress. It was no messenger or angel but his presence that saved them; in his love and in his pity he redeemed them; he lifted them up and carried them all the days of old. (NRSV) 

Reflection

What a perfect verse for Advent and Christmas! 

As I read this verse, my immediate thought was that it perfectly captured the Advent hope that we all carry with us: that at its end, we celebrate the birth of Jesus, God incarnate, who lived among us so that God could experience the same feelings we do. In doing so, it reminds us that in our own depths of despair, God understands how we feel because God has felt that same human emotion.  

The writer adds evocative imagery. We are God’s “people.” God picks us up and carries us. Like a parent or other loved one, God is saddened by our distress. We don’t have to struggle alone. God will support us. And for that we can give thanks. 

God’s support comes in many ways. For some, it’s the deep intangible sense that someone is there with us. For others, it’s in the form of a parent, spouse, or another family member. Or maybe it’s a friend or a supportive community like Fourth Church. How have you felt God’s love and care? Who’s supported you? Whom have you supported? 

We all have experienced many ups and downs over the past several years. As we come to the end of this year and this Advent journey that has led us to Christmas, may we look forward with hope and give thanks for the love and support we’ve received. 

Prayer

Supporting and loving God, remind us of the ways in which you’re present to us during our highest highs and our lowest lows. Help us to do the same for others. And as we celebrate the birth of your Son, help us to look ahead to the new year with that same sense of hope. 

Written by Mark Nelson, Member of Fourth Presbyterian Church  

Reflection and prayer © Fourth Presbyterian Church

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