Consolation for Israel

Jesus and the Just Reign of God
God Sends Jesus
Jesus is Presented in the Temple

Isaiah 40:1-5

The Message

Messages of Comfort

Prepare for God’s Arrival

40 ^1-2 “Comfort, oh comfort my people,”
    says your God.
“Speak softly and tenderly to Jerusalem,
    but also make it very clear
That she has served her sentence,
    that her sin is taken care of—forgiven!
She’s been punished enough and more than enough,
    and now it’s over and done with.”

^3-5 Thunder in the desert!
    “Prepare for God’s arrival!
Make the road straight and smooth,
    a highway fit for our God.
Fill in the valleys,
    level off the hills,
Smooth out the ruts,
    clear out the rocks.
Then God’s bright glory will shine
    and everyone will see it.
    Yes. Just as God has said.”

For Reflection
In a term perhaps coined by Charles Dickens, I wish you all a merry Christmas.  In the midst of all the hub and bub of the season, take time to reflect on the living God, the light of the world,  If you are moved by the Christ event, ask yourself, "How can I be an instrument of compassion, justice and hope and remain a humble servant, obedient to the call of God."

Perhaps, too, as followers of the Way of Christ, we are tasked with making preparations for God's arrival.  God's arrival into the hearts and minds of all people so that God's promise will be fulfilled.  Fill in what is missing from our lives.   Lower the hills of resistance.  Smooth the ruts of doubt.  Clear away the rocks of fear.  Indeed, make a smooth road for God's compassion, justice and hope. 

Pray

that you will be an instrument of compassion and justice in God's road crew.  Pray for the church to fulfill its commission.  Pray for all who labor in God's name.