Psalm 85:1-2; 8-13
Hosea 6:1-6
1 Thesalonians 1:2-10
I listen carefully to what God the LORD is saying, for he speaks peace to his faithful people. But let them not return to their foolish ways. Surely his salvation is near to those who fear him, so our land will be filled with his glory. Unfailing love and truth have met together. Righteousness and peace have kissed! Truth springs up from the earth, and righteousness smiles down from heaven. Yes, the LORD pours down his blessings. Our land will yield its bountiful harvest. Righteousness goes as a herald before him, preparing the way for his steps. Psalm 85:8-13
Peace--Peace--God's Peace. A wonderful ad common greeting on Christmas and holiday cards. It is a real prayer for us during this time of year...and for the sons of Korah to pray in Psalm 85. Peace is a coveting circumstance. Who doesn't want peace? Peace in our hearts and peace around the worlds not all countries and within all tribes. There is so much unrest in our world today. Unrest in nations and between nations. Peace is needed. Chaos in the streets, schools and homes across America. I makes me sad--gripes my heart--when I hear of yet another school shooting or policeman killed. What is our world coming to? Have they returned to their foolish ways? Unfailing love and truth have NOT met together. Not in those schools and streets. Tomorrow is a reminder that within my own family that bloodshed occurred rather than blessing when my sister's ex-husband committed the ultimate domestic violence act of murder. No peace in that action. It has caused twenty-eight years of struggling with loss of four dear family members. Where do I find peace for that? Only in my relationship with the Lord--He gives me peace to carry on--to forgive and live my life with His promises. The one I cling to the most is from Deuteronomy 31:6 and Hebrews 13:5...He will never me or forsake me. The passage in Deuteronomy also says...Be strong and courageous! Do not be afraid and do not panic before them (your enemies). For the Lord your God will personally go ahead of you. What a comforting thought that has been over the years...and time goes by so very quickly. Sunrise--sunset...and another day is gone.
This Advent passage today promises that righteousness goes before our Lord and prepares the way.
Righteousness did go before Jesus birth...preparing the way--preparing those who took part in His birth. The innkeeper, the shepherds, the wise men. There is an example of unfailing love and truth meeting together. Righteousness smiles down from Heaven.
Prayer ~ Lord Jesus...May your righteousness smile down on us from Heaven as we prepare to celebrate your birthday. Grant not only us peace on this day...but please give peace to all who seek You around the world.
Daily Bible Reading - Romans 1-3.
Advent Random Act of Kindness - Hold the door open for someone.
© 2017 Text and photos by Mickey M. Hunacek. All rights reserved.
All scripture quoted from the New Living Translation (NLT) unless otherwise noted.
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