Concerning this salvation, the prophets, who spoke of the grace that was to come to you, searched intently and with the greatest care, trying to find out the time and circumstances to which the Spirit of Christ in them was pointing when he predicted the sufferings of Christ and the glories that would follow. It was revealed to them that they were not serving themselves but you, when they spoke of the things that have now been told you by those who have preached the gospel to you by the Holy Spirit sent from heaven. Even angels long to look into these things.1 Peter 1:10-12 (NIV)
Lord Jesus, the season of Advent has just begun, and I am praying it will be a season marked more by hush than rush. If I’m going to be busy with anything, may it be with quieting my heart, focusing my gaze, and setting my affection on things above—especially on you—the Author and Perfecter of our faith, the Source and Lord of my salvation, the Fountain and Fullness of all Grace.
Grant me the same intensity and care the prophets invested in searching out the promises of your coming. May old Scriptures come alive in profoundly new ways during Advent. Humble and gladden my heart with the realization that the prophets were serving me—even me, when they spoke of your coming, your sufferings, and the glories that would follow.
And if angels were on “tiptoes with joy”—as they pondered your coming, so renew my awe and joy as well. Jesus, I will praise and adore you forever, for showing me my need of the gospel, and for giving me a love for yourself. Apart from the new birth, I would forever be a prisoner to my old life. Thank you for continuing to give grace upon grace upon grace. You are a wonderful, merciful Redeemer, indeed.
O, come, O come Immanuel, and bring even greater freedom and healing to my heart, and more glory to yourself. So very Amen I pray, in the wonders of your love and the trustworthiness of your name.
