Wednesday, December 21
Isaiah 42:1-25 and Revelation 9:1-12
As we embark on this Advent season, we may find ourselves surrounded by chaos and uncertainty as we prepare for Christmas and everything it entails. Yet during this chaos, we are reminded of the promise of hope, a hope that shines brightly through the words of Isaiah 42 and Revelation 9:1-12.
Isaiah 42:6-7 tells us, I am the Lord; I have called you in righteousness: I will take youby the hand and keep you; I will give you as a covenant for the people, a light for the nations, to open the eyes that are blind, to bring out the prisoners from the dungeon. These verses point us to the coming Messiah, the light of the world, whose birth we celebrate during Advent. Jesus Christ, the promised One, is the ultimate fulfillment of this prophecy.
Revelation 9:1-12 presents us with a vision of a fallen world, where darkness and chaos seem to reign. But even in this grim description, we find a glimmer of hope. In verse 2, we read, He opened the shaft of the bottomless pit, and from the shaft rose smoke like the smoke of a great furnace, and the sun and the air were darkened with the smoke of the shaft. This image of darkness and smoke symbolizes the spiritual darkness that surrounds humanity.
We wrap our presents to ensure that they are protected from the harm of the outside world, just as God protects us from the darkness. Wrapping paper may represent God’s protection and guidance for His people, just as He promised Isaiah. During darkness, God’s light shines forth to protect and deliver those who trust in Him. While the locusts of life bring torment to the world, God’s faithful are shielded from harm—just as the presents are protected from the elements.
As we journey through Advent, let us remember that in the darkest moments of life, the Light of Christ shines brightly. His birth, life, death, and resurrection are our source of hope and redemption. We are called to be like the sealed servants of God in Revelation, trusting in Him and allowing His light to guide us through the trials and tribulations of the world.
RACHEL YUHAS
CUAA Student
About this series
“God With Us: the uncommon advent 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.