Advent Devotion 2010 – Tuesday, November 30
November 30, 2010
Isaiah 1:22-27
Bible Passage...
Jerusalem, you were once like silver, but now you are worthless; you were like good wine, but now you are only water. Your leaders are rebels and friends of thieves; they are always accepting gifts and bribes. They never defend orphans in court or listen when widows present their case. So now, listen to what the LORD Almighty, Israel's powerful God, is saying: "I will take revenge on you, my enemies, and you will cause me no more trouble. I will take action against you. I will purify you the way metal is refined, and will remove all your impurity. I will give you rulers and advisers like those you had long ago. Then Jerusalem will be called the righteous, faithful city." Because the LORD is righteous, he will save Jerusalem and everyone there who repents. I will give you rulers and advisers like those you had long ago. Then Jerusalem will be called the righteous, faithful city." Because the LORD is righteous, he will save Jerusalem and everyone there who repents.
Reflection...
As we continue to prepare our lives for this advent season, let us be ever mindful of the LORD’s guidance and warnings to us toward the way we and others conduct our everyday lives. We find ourselves inundated with example after example of public figures holding power and influence who are violating public trust and confidence, with seemingly no end in sight for continuing examples of power and financial abuse.
How should we as Christians conduct our own personal lives in this unsavory environment? Read and study the Bible. We should be knowledgeable of what the LORD tells us and warns us he will do to the unscrupulous in our midst. The Isaiah passage I have used above is but one of many examples. I Thessalonians 2: 1-12 and Luke 20: 9-18 are other examples. And of course pray for those in positions of power and authority that they will follow God’s will and guidance.
Prayer...
Dear Lord, we are comforted by your peace, your guidance, and your presence in our lives. We ask for that same presence in the lives and decisions of those in positions of authority. Help them Lord to do your will. Amen.
Tom Bender