Wednesday, December 21, 2011

Today's Advent Passage: Isa. 42:1, 3

Behold my servant, whom I uphold, my chosen, in whom my soul delights; I have put my Spirit upon him; he will bring forth justice to the nations. ... a bruised reed he will not break, and a faintly burning wick he will not quench; he will faithfully bring forth justice. - (Isaiah 42:1, 3 ESV)

The prophecies of Messiah, completely fulfilled in Jesus, reveal much to us about the nature and character of God's chosen One. This passage reminds us that Jesus was fully anointed by the Holy Spirit. Want to know what a Spirit-filled life looks like? Look to Jesus.

His mercy is also apparent. Gentle and sensitive enough to care not break off a reed that has been bruised, or put out even the faintest wick, Jesus knows those who are His. He knows our weaknesses and frailties and sees the depths of our hearts. He nurtures us when others dismiss us. Jesus was walking proof of James 2:13b: "Mercy triumphs over judgment."

And yet judgment will come - it must, for Him to faithfully bring forth justice to the nations. This is where the first and second advents converge. While He came first to suffer and save, He is coming again to gather those who have believed in Him and the judge the world righteously. Justice is only delayed, not denied, for He is faithful.

This is the Lord whose birth we celebrate. This is our king and our God.

O Come, let us adore Him!

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