Advent Devotional - 18th Day

Wednesday, December 14th, 2011

Written by: Shirley Evans

Readings: Isaiah 1:10-20, 6:1-13, 8:11 - 9:7

In these verses of Isaiah we see the sin of Israel and of humankind in many forms. Isaiah 1:10-20 speaks to God’s desire for sincere worship – not showy and meaningless religious activities and sacrifice; not heartless display without any real love for God. Isaiah warns of judgment and destruction if attitudes are not changed.

In Isaiah. 6:1-13 we begin to see this sin and rejection of God juxtaposed with God’s cleansing of Isaiah’s silenced, unclean lips with the coal – God’s cleansing grace. We see hope despite the judgment and near destruction of the people of Israel. The believing remnant will remain from which a Holy Seed will come – a shoot of the tree from which the Messiah will come and a Godly nation will grow again – both Jew and Gentile.

Then in Isaiah 8:11-9:7 the dismal circumstances are pierced by a new light - the true hope of the world that is to come – Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. Isaiah urges us to celebrate with joy that our darkness has turned to light.

Dear Lord, Thank you for your mercy and grace. Let me joyously celebrate the new light of the Messiah as I “Stop doing wrong, learn to do right, seek justice, encourage the oppressed, defend the cause of the fatherless, plead the case of the widow.” (Is. 1:16-17) I ask this in Jesus’ name. Amen.

Family Moments:

Wednesday: Week 3, Isaiah, The Call to Holiness, Fire Tongs with Hot Coal
Isaiah confessed his sins to God and was forgiven (as evidenced in the cleansing with a hot coal). Today we have the meal of Holy Communion to remind us how Jesus forgives us. What are some things in your life that need forgiveness – from God or from others? Say a prayer of confession to God. Take comfort in knowing that God forgives and cleanses us from sin. Now, share that forgiveness with someone who needs your forgiveness! Color the ornament and add it to your Jesse Tree.