Advent Devotional - December 8

DECEMBER 8 – Joshua 22: 1-6

By: Leslie Donahue

The Israelites were wandering in the desert for years and had finally arrived at the Jordan River. God had promised to lead them and protect them as they entered the land of Canaan. He had kept his promise and finally the gift is in their sights! Joshua reminds them “to love the Lord, your God, to walk in all his ways, to keep his commandments, and to hold fast to him, and to serve him with all your heart and with all your soul”.

God promised a gift to all his people…the Messiah, our Savior and we are led to that gift by the Star of Bethlehem. God’s gift arrived as a baby wrapped in swaddling clothes, but grew to be a man who died on the cross for us and then rose again. Jesus’ words echo Joshua’s word from God…“to love your God with all your heart, with all your mind and all your soul and to love your neighbor as yourself.” As we anticipate and celebrate God’s free gift, may we be reminded that is all God wants from us.

Prayer

Dear Heavenly Father, Thank you for keeping your promises. Help me to remember your commands each day to love you, love people and make disciples. Amen

Family Moment

God used Moses to led God’s people out of Egypt. God guides us, sometimes by giving us people like Moses to follow (or Parents, Grandparents, Teachers, Pastors!). Make a list of all the people in your life that help to guide you. Thank God for the “guiding stars” in your life, and make a thank-you card for some of your guiding stars!