Rejoice in the Advent of Our Savior

12/08/2023

"The Lord takes pleasure in those who fear him, in those who hope in his steadfast love."
- Psalm 147:11 ESV

As we look to complete this first week of Advent, we are reminded of the truth that our God takes pleasure in those who fear Him and hope in His unfailing love. This psalm beautifully captures the essence of the Advent message, inviting us to rejoice in the anticipation of the coming Messiah.

During the first week of Advent, we focus on the theme of hope. It is a time of preparation and expectation as we eagerly await the birth of our Savior, Jesus Christ. In the midst of a broken world, filled with despair and darkness, God's Word reassures us that He delights in those who place their hope in Him.

The psalmist reminds us that the Lord takes pleasure in those who fear Him. This "fear" does not imply terror or anxiety, but rather a deep reverence, awe, and respect for the Almighty God. It is an acknowledgment of His majesty, power, and wisdom. Our fear of the Lord is rooted in our understanding of His character and His love for us.

As we reflect on the birth of Jesus, let us remember that God's pleasure is found in our hope. The hope that was fulfilled in the birth of Christ, the hope that assures us of His redemptive work, and the hope that sustains us through the challenges of life. Our hope is not in worldly possessions or achievements, but in the steadfast love of our Heavenly Father.

The birth of Jesus Christ is the ultimate manifestation of God's steadfast love. Don’t get me wrong, the cross is an extremely important event, but had God not first sent His only Son to dwell among us, to bear our sins, and to reconcile us to Himself, it would have never happened. This act of divine love is the foundation of our hope. It reminds us that no matter what we face in this life, God's love for us is unwavering and unchanging.

Remember this first week of Advent symbolizes hope, let it serve as a reminder that our hope is not in ourselves or in the circumstances around us, but in the unchanging character of our God. Let us lift our eyes to Him, placing our trust in His promises, and finding joy in the anticipation of His coming.

May we be a people who fear the Lord, not out of dread but out of reverence and awe. Let us be a people who place our hope in His steadfast love, knowing that He takes pleasure in us as we eagerly await the fulfillment of His promises. May our hearts be filled with joy and gratitude, as we celebrate the birth of our Savior, Jesus Christ.

Pastor Jeff

#LoveGod #LovePeople #FindFreedom #FindYourDesign

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