Listen

Then the eyes of the blind will be opened, and the ears of the deaf will be cleared. Then the lame will leap like the deer, and the tongue of the speechless will sing. Waters will spring up in the desert, and streams in the wilderness. The burning sand will become a pool, and the thirsty ground, fountains of water. The jackals’ habitat, a pasture; grass will become reeds and rushes. A highway will be there. It will be called The Holy Way. The unclean won’t travel on it, but it will be for those walking on that way. Even fools won’t get lost on it; no lion will be there, and no predator will go up on it. None of these will be there; only the redeemed will walk on it. The Lord’s ransomed ones will return and enter Zion with singing, with everlasting joy upon their heads. Happiness and joy will overwhelm them; grief and groaning will flee away.

Isaiah 35:5-10

Think

Christmas lights twinkle on houses, Christmas music is being played, and school is almost out for a break. Not everyone experiences joy in this time. Deep uncertainty and fears overwhelm our days and cloud our ability to savor the season. Do you ever wonder if you will be able to experience joy again?

Isaiah’s promises are for hard days, and they stand up against the terrors that taunt us. This is a bold proclamation of joy and a lot of hope in the midst of destruction and uncertainty. We need this good news. We need this reminder that joy is not only possible; it is God’s promise. This is the good news we seek, claim, and proclaim this Advent.

Michelle Thomas-Bush

Pray

Come Lord Jesus, open my eyes that I may catch glimpses of you in these Advent days.

Open my ears to hear the angels sing.

May I not hesitate to sing out in joy and glorify you forever.

Amen.

Go

The good news of great joy isn’t just something to receive, accept, or even consume.

Be great joy.

Offer great joy in kind, loving relationships with those you love and those you haven’t even met yet.

God is still trying to get to us to bring good news of great joy for all the people. ALL THE people. That means you. And me. And them.

Good news of great joy for ALL.