Thursday, December 26, 2024  

Today's Scripture
Isaiah 52:7–10

How beautiful upon the mountains
are the feet of the messenger who announces peace,
who brings good news,
who announces salvation,
who says to Zion, “Your God reigns.”
Listen! Your sentinels lift up their voices,
together they sing for joy;
for in plain sight they see
the return of the Lord to Zion. Break forth together into singing,
you ruins of Jerusalem;
for the Lord has comforted his people,
he has redeemed Jerusalem.
The Lord has bared his holy arm
before the eyes of all the nations;
and all the ends of the earth shall see
the salvation of our God. (NRSV)

Reflection

Christmas Day is complete! In an animal stall our savior was born, and our joyous commemoration of it is done. Our silent nights have been given over to full-throated laughter and praise, and we can enjoy the last days of the year in gratitude for God’s blessings.

Today’s passage describes more loud praise, as the Jewish people are reassured that God’s might and presence among them, questionable after the destruction of the temple and the Babylonian exile, is evident again. That might never really left, and everyone now shouts in gratitude and thanksgiving. This power isn’t merely spiritual. The imagery here is very physical. The messenger’s feet smack the ground, people shout in celebration, and God’s strong arm is visible to believers and doubters alike.

If you are ever overtaken by fatigue these days — it has been a very exhausting year — take comfort. Share this comfort with others, too: God is here with us, God is all around us, and God will gather the ruins and make them whole again.

Prayer
Creator and Sustainer, give me the strength to sing your praises loudly enough to be heard above the mountains. We your people enjoy your protection at all times, and we are forever grateful. Amen.

Written by Jim Garner, Member of Fourth Presbyterian Church

Reflection and Prayer © Fourth Presbyterian Church

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