Devotional
Just a Minute Devotional #31
Waiting for Christmas
Listen to me, you bullheaded people who are far from victory: I’m bringing my victory near — it isn’t far, and my salvation — it won’t delay. I will establish salvation in Zion and grant my splendor to Israel. (Isaiah 46:12–13, CEB)
In the religious realm, we are in the time called Advent. It refers to the coming of the Messiah, the one who would bring salvation to the world.
Isaiah did not know the person Jesus, but he did know the message that God placed in his heart. It was an advent message of a hope, repentance and salvation, not only to that generation but for all generations to come.
Take time to read the whole chapter of Isaiah 49 to see all the ways in which Christ Jesus fit the bill of the chosen Messiah.
We are God’s children, created in His image. God did not forget us. He sees and hears the moaning of our hearts and souls. He sees sin’s sickness. But He would one day come as a baby Himself, to make all things right.
Therefore, the Lord will give you a sign. The young woman is pregnant and is about to give birth to a son, and she will name him Immanuel. (Isaiah 7:14, CEB)
Jesus is Immanuel, and quite literally He was and is: God with us.
So, as Christmas approaches, take time to do what it says in Isaiah 49:13.
Sing, heavens! Rejoice, earth! Break out, mountains, with a song. The Lord has comforted his people, and taken pity on those who suffer. (Isaiah 49:13, CEB)
