Isaiah 4:2-6
Psalm 122
Matthew 8:5-13
Advent is upon us. It’s time to bring out the Nativity Scene, dust it off, and place it in a spot in your home where you can spend reflective time with it. Let’s meditate prayerfully on this miracle of miracles, the birth of Jesus, our Lord, the Son of God, long promised, long longed for and long-awaited Messiah. Our Jewish brothers and sisters have been awaiting the Messiah since forever. Old Testament Prophets had long been foretelling this Promised One. We read today in Isaiah: “the branch of the Lord will be beautiful and glorious.”
As we wait quietly and expectantly in prayer during these Advent days, we picture that precious wee baby lying on a humble bed of straw, in the meanest of nurseries. His adoring parents, like any first-time parents, are gazing lovingly at their personal miracle. They must be remembering the words of the angel who told them this baby would be the Son of God! And the Prophet who had said He would be beautiful and glorious. Wow! Welcome, Little One!
As we rest in the sure knowledge that Jesus is the Son of God, and as we contemplate the meaning He has for us in our lives, let us remember our Jewish brothers and sisters who are still awaiting the Messiah. Let us pray also for our Palestinian friends. Was there ever a time when peace was more needed in Jerusalem?
“Pray for the peace of Jerusalem.
May there be peace within your walls.” Psalm 122:6-7
– Carolyn Madeley
