~~~ Isaiah 40:1–11; 31
As we live through this pandemic, and continue through Advent, I am reminded by the words of Isaiah that God is bigger and stronger than anything we may face in our lifetime. Add to that the knowledge of God’s desire for us to be comforted, and we find the importance and need to look for the all-embracing love of God in new and unexpected ways.
We’re about to complete a difficult year while facing another uncertain one. Twelve months ago, life was what we used to call “normal.” We moved about as we wished; we prepared for Christmas; we went to movies; attended concerts; kids went to school; we went out to restaurants; we visited friends; gathered in groups larger than 10; even went to church; to work and received paychecks; we did all these things … all without a second thought.
2020 has been a year to remember … or maybe a year to forget. But as we draw near to Christmas and the end of the year, we know in God we find comfort and love. Isaiah spoke to a people with little comfort also facing a bleak past and an uncertain future. The Prophet’s same words come to us; facing a challenge in ways we did not even imagine a year ago. Yet God is with us now; at work in our lives even in the midst of our suffering. I find comfort in that God does not run away from us, but chooses to run to us, and more importantly stays and dwells with us, even in a pandemic. God Bless You.
Prayer for Advent Peace (based on Joyce Rupp, O.S.M.): As I pray today, I will turn my heart toward someone who has hurt me. Amen.
Patrick D., Morgan Hill United Methodist Church
