2010 Advent-Christmas-Epiphany Devotions

FIRST WEEK OF ADVENT
Rachel Jones

Light one candle of the Advent wreath

Read Isaiah 2:1-5

In the last days, there will be no more of this. Our fighting weapons—our words, our money, our swords-- will be transformed for the purpose of new creation. The word will be clear and we will rest while the Lord settles all the disputes we tangle our minds into.

Can you believe it?

God will be exalted. We will need no proof or apology. All the nations will be drawn to the glory. No time to think up new wars. No time to build our own mountains of things.

Can you believe it?

Today, there is only this: injustices hidden underneath fancy new sheens, and grace, hidden, peeking from under shadows. Today, there is darkness. Yet, it is today that we walk in the light of faith.

Come, let us walk. Come, let us believe.

The light is not yet full-- the single candle, the light of a promise. It is a promise of more light, a promise of mercy and justice. It is a reminder that the kingdom is not just to be waited on but to be brought, that when we light our candles we are manifesting now the hope to come.

Walk in the light.

We know the ending already. People will come and pursue God. As we wait in anticipation for new birth, let us make an effort to be light. Where will you be illumination this season?

As the days grow shorter, think of the Israelites. Think of their struggles of holding onto a God who is unpredictable. Think of Mary, knowing that her role was to prepare and make way for the Lord to become human. Think of the shepherds, who will find miracles very soon. Hear Isaiah, who never saw the promise come to fullness but believed. Prepare yourself for earth-shattering grace.

Prayer
Awesome God, bringer of hope,
lead us on your path
that we may be light in this time of darkness.
Let this candle remind us
of your coming presence
and of the vision
which we live into each day as your people.
Free us from our swords and spears
and teach us to exist in your peace alone.
Amen.

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Updated March 13, 2011