Advent Devotionals: Day 28

The last word from God had been over 400 years earlier. Malachi had written of Israel, of their sins and the judgment to come, “The great and terrible day of the Lord.” (Malachi 4:5). Then silence. The words of doom hung over them day and night like a dark and ominous cloud.

The people had not improved. They had not repented. It was as if they were now imprisoned in their sinful and faithless country. It was not even theirs anymore, as the ghastly Romans had come to rule over them. Yet Malachi had also foretold that there would come deliverance for those who feared God’s name. The sun of righteousness would rise with healing in its wings. (Malachi 4:2).

This next to last day of advent was still hiding the secret of the ages. He would slip silently into the world under the star over Bethlehem. It would fulfill what Isaiah had written much earlier, “Arise, shine, for your light has come, and the glory of the Lord has risen upon you.” (Isaiah 60:1).

Light not only for lonely Jerusalem, but for the entire world. He (anyone) who follows Me will not walk in darkness, but will have the Light of life. God’s redemption would come forth with the next light of day. He shines even till now. Let us rejoice and be glad!

Prayer: Jesus, help me understand the wonderful truth that you are the Light of the world, living light. Help me to follow You every day. Please bathe me in the Light of life. Amen.

New American Standard Bible (NASB) Copyright © 1960, 1962, 1963, 1968, 1971, 1972, 1973, 1975, 1977, 1995 by The Lockman Foundation