Wednesday, November 30
Isaiah 6:1-7:9; 1 Peter 2:13-25
During this first week of Advent, we focus on the upcoming hope and celebration of our Savior’s birth and the profound value of His promises to save the broken-hearted. We have all been created in His image of grace, mercy, forgiveness, and a never-ending love that is the same yesterday, today, and tomorrow. From the beauty in nature to the calm of a silent night or the replay of Christmas carols, we are reminded of the season and the glory of God. Holy, holy, holy is God Almighty; the whole earth is full of his glory (Isaiah 6:3).
Yet as humans being created in His image, we are broken and fall short of his calling and purpose. His forgiveness and glory allow for his broken children to be loved and valued despite our shortcomings. With the constant influence of the changes in culture around us, I especially enjoy this time of year to refocus on the true meaning of all creation and reflect on the multitude of blessings that have been placed in my life. I use this time to question myself, Do I live my life portraying the image of God as I was designed to do?
Let’s consider how that could look. In the worship and spirit of the season, let us all praise Jesus for our blessings in preparation of our purpose during Advent. I encourage each of us to stop and take a moment to reflect on the beauty of Advent and what glorifies God. Let us not only receive blessings from Jesus and others around us, but rather be a blessing to all others in the pureness of love, kindness, grace, and forgiveness as displayed by Jesus. Bear His image through your behaviors, thoughts, emotions, and actions, projecting Jesus during Advent. Reflect on your value and uniqueness as one intentionally designed by God despite others that may wrongly persecute you. Lead with kindness and love as it can potentially change another person’s day, thoughts regarding the Advent season, or their broader perspective on life and its meaning. Live such good lives among the pagans that, though they accuse you of doing wrong, they may see your good deeds and glorify God on the day he visits us (I Peter 2:12).
DR. KELLY HUFFMAN
School of Nursing, CUW
About this series
“Advent Anticipation: the arrival of our Savior” is a sampling of biblical meditations composed by members of the CUWAA community. It is our prayer that you will take time during the Advent season to read and reflect upon God’s Word and await the coming of Jesus with newfound enthusiasm and anticipation through the Holy Spirit.