Devotion: The Prophet is Calling
Please take the time to read Isaiah 9:2-7
Here we are in a season of cold and darkness. The sun rises late and the evening comes early. In Isaiah 9, Isaiah writes about the people that have been walking in darkness, but there will come a king like no other. They will be free of oppression and God’s light will be shining on them.
Sometimes as individuals, we have to live through a season of winter sadness and darkness. In fact, a season of winter weather can make a personal winter of discontent seem even darker. When we carry darkness within ourselves, be it sorrow, illness, financial issues, family discord, we cannot see the light of day. We cannot find that core human emotion of a state of bliss or a source of delight or satisfaction that we call joy.
In verse 6, Isaiah predicts that a child will be born. To us a son will be given. He will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, and Prince of Peace. He will bring us great joy.
So, “What does joy look like?” Pastor Sarah posed this question to us last Sunday, the second Sunday in Advent. The dictionary definition of joy is: a profound, deep-seated emotion of intense delight, well-being, and contentment. Jesus will bring us great joy in many forms.
Sunday’s Christmas cantata brought external joy to those who performed and blessed those who listened. One of our young guests exclaimed, “I’ve never heard anything so beautiful!” We pray that everyone went home with the internal joy of peace and contentment. Our hearts are full of gratitude to all those participants who shared their gifts of talent bringing light into the darkness.
May we see Christ in each person we meet, share our time and talents to enrich other’s lives that they may see the light of Jesus. That’s where our joy will be found.
Everlasting Father, We thank you for bringing the baby Jesus into the world that we might have light in the darkness. Guide our footsteps, equipping us to bring joy to others during this Advent season and throughout each day of the year. Grant us peace and contentment. Amen
Written by Janece Nelson
Janece and husband, Mike, have been members of Sheridan for more than twelve years. Janece is a retired mathematics instructor teaching at the middle school and college level. They are blessed with two children and three grandchildren.
Janece finds her greatest joy in spending time with her family and friends. Her passion is writing devotions for patients in hospitals and rehabs she sees every Monday as a Sheridan hospital visitor. As a Teammate she also mentors girls at Boys Town. Janece credits Faith Builders and Companions in Christ for her spiritual growth.