“The prophets who prophesied of the grace that was to come to you, searched intently with great care, seeking to discern when and where the Spirit of Christ inside them was pointing. Without all the details, the Spirit told them the Messiah would suffer and afterwards great glories would follow… Even angels, on tip-toes with joy, long to look into these things.” (pp 1Pet.1:10-12)
Lord Jesus, the season of Advent officially begins tomorrow, Nov. 30—a month of pondering the things that moved prophets and angels to deep awe, fresh hope, and holy joy. May December 2025 find us “busy” with slowing down, quieting our hearts, and setting our gaze and affection on you afresh.
The Old Testament’s prophets were “shocked and awed” as the Holy Spirit gave them promises, words, and images to share with us about your two comings. By the sufferings of your first, you secured the glories of your second. I love how Peter summarized the “big picture” of your work as the Messiah as “grace coming to us.” For that is what we need, and that is who you are, Jesus. Truly, grace isn’t a something; it is a Someone—you, Lord Jesus.
Before you drew your first incarnate breath in Bethlehem, and exhaled your last on Calvary, you breathed our world into existence. Oh, blessed Alpha and Omega—First, Middle, and Last—Jesus only you are worthy of our worship, love, and praise. Only you see, know, and care for us in the ways we crave and need.
You know our greatest struggles and our yet-to-be-healed wounds, our most holy longings and your most glorious provision. Meet with us in this month, Jesus. Melt us with your mercy. Marvel our hearts with your truth, goodness, and beauty in ways we have never experienced. So Very Amen.
