Advent Devotion – December 14 – Robin Orewiler

And he shall stand and feed his flock in the strength of the Lord, in the majesty of the name of the Lord his God.

Micah 5:2-5

Scripture: Micah 5:2-5

I’m a happy person. I sing in the shower, dance in the kitchen, and usually walk around with a smile on my face reflecting the joy in my heart. But the pandemic has challenged my normal, cheerful self.

I’ve found myself being discouraged, anxious, and fearful. The days are long and monotonous – nothing really to look forward to and so much to be sad about. I miss people. I miss joy. Some days I don’t want to talk to anyone. Other days I long to see, hug, and worship with my church family.

So many things are out of my control and I often become overwhelmed. I wonder when this will end and what life will be like then – will we ever return to our “normal” pre-COVID lives? All I can do is pray and have faith that things will improve. All I can do is trust God.

The Israelites suffered mightily at the hands of the Assyrians and prayed for God to help them. God promised to send “one who is to be a ruler in Israel on my behalf” (Micah 5:2). And that “He will stand and shepherd his flock….He will surely become great throughout the earth” (Micah 5:4). “He will become one of peace” (Micah 5:5). These verses show that God does not forget about God’s people. They also show that God promised a Savior: someone to lead, to comfort, and to believe in.

Advent is a time to reflect upon that savior – Jesus.

The Advent candles remind us who Jesus is: hope, peace, joy, and love. Hope like a light shining in the dark. Peace like being surrounded in a soft, warm blanket. Joy that is deep in your soul and tickles your heart. Love that is unending and everlasting.

When we find ourselves feeling despair, anxiety, and fearing the unknown – trust in the power and love of God who sent us his only son, Jesus, to bring hope and renewal to our world.

Robin Orewiler

 Core Idea: Jesus comes to bring peace to the afflicted.

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