Welcome to our special Advent edition of the Daily Devos. Advent means “the arrival.” It is a way to look back and celebrate the Son of God coming to earth to be born as a baby in a manger while we also look forward to His second coming when creation will be redeemed and restored. Through December, we invite you to experience Advent in your own story.

Begin with two minutes of stillness and silence before God.

While the intended audience for these chapters of Isaiah were exiles in Babylonian captivity, the words of chapter 40 still resonate today and bring context to our advent journey.

The coming of Jesus wasn’t a surprise to God’s people. For those who truly trusted in Him and believed that the words of prophets like Isaiah were true, they knew there was a plan; he had told them outright. They didn’t have to wonder if God would save them or how; they simply clung to the promise that the Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, and Prince of Peace was on the way.

Despite knowing about God’s plan for salvation, the Hebrew people must have been discouraged after 70 years of captivity. Just as we begin to wonder, doubt, and grow weary in a season of waiting to hear from God, so did they. So, God, sensing the mind and heart-set of His people, knew they needed comfort, and it came again through Isaiah.

God’s words of comfort are never hollow or shallow positive-thinking remarks; He always gives us good reasons to be encouraged. In the case of the Hebrew people, one reason was victory. Even though the battle was ongoing, God declared it ended: “...her hard service has been completed.” I spy a promise! God spoke not of present conditions but future glory.

A second reason to take comfort was the hope of forgiveness: “Her sin has been paid for.” That had to come as a breath of fresh air to any Hebrews who may have doubted or forgotten God in their waiting.

And finally, the Hebrew people could be comforted by future atonement for their sin. “She has received from the Lord’s hand double for all her sins.” Here, the word “double” means “to fold over,” or “fold in half.” When you fold a napkin, for example, one half completely covers the other. With this in mind, we understand that the payment made would be equal to and completely sufficient for our sin.

Next, Isaiah instructs God’s people to prepare the way of the Lord. I would imagine building a road must be some of the most difficult, strenuous work there is. Land must be cleared, ground must be broken, and a firm, level foundation must be laid. All of this – and likely much more, but I’m no expert – has to happen before the process can even begin.

The Hebrews understood the work required in building a road, so this imagery probably connected with them. But what is God really saying here? In order for the promised Messiah to come, there must be personal repentance and social reformation. The people needed to prepare their hearts, and so do we! We need to clear out habits and behaviors that don’t honor Him. We need to level out our priorities, cutting down idols and raising God back to His rightful place as Lord.

Isaiah then reminds us of our temporary existence in this world and points to God’s Word as the only lasting truth. Just think of how it’s endured; scripture has survived countless transcriptions, translations, threats of being destroyed, criticism, persecution, and even our own doubt and disbelief. And yet, it remains.

Finally, this passage ends with the greatness of God and a challenge to declare it. My translation says, “Behold your God!” When you behold something, you don’t simply give it a passing glance; you gaze upon it. You take it in completely and appreciate every part.

So, to sum up this chapter, take comfort. Prepare the way of the Lord. Trust in His Word that will never fail. And behold our God who is working in your waiting.

Take two minutes to reflect in silence.

Reflection:

• Listen to “LION” by Elevation Worship, Chris Brown, and Brandon Lake.
  
• Consider how you may need to prepare your heart ahead of Christmas. What do you spend most of your time thinking about? What allegiances may need to be cut down or cleared away? How do you need to strengthen your foundation in Christ in order for Him to build upon it?
  
• Prayer: God, thank You for Your promise of victory, forgiveness, and atonement for my sin. Thank You for the comfort of Your Word as I wait. Show me how to prepare the way for You in my heart, and give me strength and discernment to clear out anything I’ve placed before You. Help me to behold You as I go about my day. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
• Come back on Wednesday for a special Advent Daily Devo video!
• Find more Advent tools and resources at venturechurch.org/advent.