Third Monday of Advent
Daily Advent Readings & Meditation
December 18, 2023
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Texts:

Isaiah 35:1-3, 5-6, 9: A vision of hope and restoration for the redeemed.

Colossians 3:12-15: The call to live in peace and harmony as God’s chosen people.

Isaiah 35:1-3, 5-6, 9

The wilderness and the dry land shall be glad, the desert shall rejoice and blossom; like the crocus it shall blossom abundantly, and rejoice with joy and singing. The glory of Lebanon shall be given to it, the majesty of Carmel and Sharon. They shall see the glory of the Lord, the majesty of our God. Strengthen the weak hands, and make firm the feeble knees.

Then the eyes of the blind shall be opened, and the ears of the deaf unstopped; then the lame shall leap like a deer, and the tongue of the speechless sing for joy. For waters shall break forth in the wilderness, and streams in the desert; No lion shall be there, nor shall any ravenous beast come up on it; they shall not be found there, but the redeemed shall walk there.

Colossians 3:12-15

As God’s chosen ones, holy and beloved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, meekness, and patience. Bear with one another and, if anyone has a complaint against another, forgive each other; just as the Lord has forgiven you, so you also must forgive. Above all, clothe yourselves with love, which binds everything together in perfect harmony. And let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, to which indeed you were called in the one body. And be thankful.

Today’s Meditation:   Isaiah offers a vision of hope and restoration, where deserts bloom and joy replaces sorrow. This powerful image speaks to the transformative work of God in our lives and in our world, promising renewal and rejuvenation. In Colossians, Paul urges us to embrace a life characterized by compassion, kindness, humility, and patience, embodying the peace of Christ. These scriptures call us to imagine and work towards a world where God’s restorative power is evident, and where our relationships are marked by divine attributes of love and peace. Today, let us commit to being agents of this restoration, embodying the virtues that foster peace and harmony.

Something to Think and Pray About:

1. In what ways can you be a part of God’s restorative work in your community?
2. How can you embody the virtues of compassion, kindness, and patience in your daily interactions?

A Prayer For Today:  Gracious and Restorative God, inspire us this Advent to be bearers of Your hope and restoration. Guide us to live in peace and harmony, clothed in the virtues of compassion and kindness. May our lives reflect Your transformative power, bringing hope and renewal wherever we go. Amen.