December 16
Say to those with anxious heart, “Take courage, fear not. Behold, your God will come with vengeance; The recompense of God will come, But He will save you.” 5 Then the eyes of the blind will be opened And the ears of the deaf will be unstopped. 6 Then the lame will leap like a deer, And the tongue of the mute will shout for joy. For waters will break forth in the wilderness And streams in the Arabah. (Isaiah 35:4-6)
Today’s passage first addressed anxiety and fear about an uncertain future—something everyone can relate to—and then moved on to identify the miracles the Messiah would bring. Like those who were comforted by Isaiah’s words, when we stop and consider the many ways in which God serves humankind, it should counteract our fears and give us courage as it reminds us that God loves us and wants what is best for us.
Think about the kind of ministry Jesus spearheaded when He came to deliver God’s salvation. Jesus’ ministry was full of miracles, but these were not self-serving. He didn’t use His power to become rich or to gain status. Rather, His miracles were used to serve others. In fact, Christ accomplished every miracle listed in today’s passage during His time on earth. Jesus gave sight to the blind, restored hearing to the deaf, and speech to the mute, and gave mobility to the paralyzed, and all of it culminated in the ultimate miracle of His resurrection.
Never before has someone in a position of leadership and power gone to such great lengths to serve all mankind. This Advent season, joyfully remember the ministry of Christ, while also remembering that His miracles were not reserved for those who happened to walk the earth when He did. The miracle of His salvation is still changing lives today.
- What fears and anxieties do you struggle with the most?
- How does God working in your life on your behalf make you feel more courageous?