First Sunday of Advent

Today’s Reading: Isaiah 1:1-9

Key Verse: Why will you still be struck down? Why will you continue to rebel? The whole head is sick, and the whole heart faint. ~Isaiah 1:5

Isaiah calls us to observe this Advent season by reminding us that “the Lord has spoken” (Isa 1:2). Isaiah’s prophecy begins with God handing down his judgment about Judah. It is an indictment about their waywardness. Advent calls us to reflect upon our own waywardness, our own failings, as we prepare to celebrate the arrival of Jesus, the Messiah. Israel waited for centuries for the Messiah to come, and many missed His appearing. Advent provides us with an opportunity to examine our lives, to see the ways in which we have become “laden with iniquity” (Isa 1:4) and then to repent, to turn back to God and trust in the One who he has sent to be our Savior. Isaiah speaks a word of challenge to us as we begin the Advent journey, reminding us that if we are to have our wounds healed and to receive the gift of God: Jesus Christ Himself, the Messiah, the Savior, then we must begin by reflecting upon our lives and turning from our sin.

Reflect: Verse two begins “Hear, O heavens, and give ear, O earth, for the Lord has spoken.” How well are you listening to the Lord? Do you know His voice? Do you seek to hear Him? Spend some time asking God’s forgiveness for the times you have failed to hear and to listen, and then ask Him to speak to you today. And listen.

Heavenly Father, thank you that you have spoken your love to the world by sending your Son. Please speak to me again today and give me ears to hear, a mind to understand and a heart to love and obey you. Help me to us this season of Advent to draw closer to you. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

For Further Reading: 2 Peter 3:1-10 Matthew 25:1-13 Psalm 146