Worship

Scripture

I’m not a big fan of waiting in lines. Years ago, I visited Disneyland, and as you can imagine, had my patience tested multiple times. 45 minutes of painfully inching toward the end of an endless line for a five minute thrill ride felt like a necessary evil. There I was, twiddling my thumbs and tapping my foot when I’d hear the joyful shouts of people in the distance or see them whizz over my head with hands in the air. Suddenly I’d be reminded of what was coming and why I wasn’t just standing there wasting my time. In my heart I knew the thrill at the end of the line was worth standing in my own sweat for an hour.

As exciting as the Old Testament can be at times, I think we’re all reading along eagerly anticipating what’s coming next; Jesus. The beauty is, we know what’s at the end! We’re blessed on this side of History to know the hope of Chirst’s sacrifice is on its way for the original audience of Isaiah and this hope only intensifies as our pages flip closer and closer to Matthew 1:1.

We’ve all heard it quoted before in a kids Christmas drama! Isaiah 9:6 says “For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders. And he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.” This verse sounds like it belongs much later in the story, but it’s a glimpse of Christ showing up to give God’s people hope!

Jesus shows up in prophecies throughout the Old Testament but I’m thankful we’re no longer waiting in line to see His mercy come to life! We get to skip the line completely and walk straight into the glory of God’s presence in our lives! We live in fulfillment of what others longed to see!

Prayer

HONOR GOD

Exodus 33:14

And He said, “My presence shall go with you, and I will give you rest.” 

 The distinguishing mark for us as God’s chosen people, is that His presence is with us. Consider the impact that the creator of the universe is our companion.

ASK GOD

SUBMIT TO GOD

CLOSING PRAYER

Praise God I am not desperately trying to measure up to an impossible state of perfection. Instead, I am surrendered to You Lord, and am covered by Your grace. Lord, don’t stop reminding me of the blessing of your sacrifice. I am thankful for the access I have to Your presence each and every moment no matter the state of my “cleanliness.”  In Jesus Name, Amen.