Advent Devotional

Are you a glass-half-empty or glass-half-full kind of person?  I admit that I have my cynical days, especially when I watch too much news.  It doesn’t take a genius to figure out something is broken in the world.  Something is terribly wrong and appears to be spiraling in the wrong direction.  But that’s why God promised to send the Messiah!

This passage in Isaiah anticipates both the first and second coming of Christ.  If you need a good dose of hope, just remember that Jesus is coming soon.  He is going to fix what is broken, heal what is sick, restore what was lost, and right every wrong.

Remember also who he is.  Is he Wonderful to you?  Is he your Counselor?  Is he Mighty enough to handle your problems?  As the Eternal Father, he lives outside of time and knows the end from the beginning.  Nothing takes him by surprise.  Nothing is outside of his control.  Imagine the day when the government will rest entirely upon his shoulders and there will be no end to his kingdom!  In light of that, I think the glass is half-full, don’t you?

For Reflection & Discussion: What amazes you the most about the description of Jesus in this passage?

Prayer: Mighty God, Everlasting Father, we declare that you are the Prince of Peace.  Grant us the peace that surpasses all understanding.  Counsel us with your eye upon us, and show us wonderful things.  Please restrain the evil governments that are opposed to you.  Do not let them prevail over your people.  We pray for your kingdom to come, and your will to be done on earth as it is in heaven.  Come quickly and let your peace cover the earth.