Devotion:
Read Isaiah 53:5.
This Old Testament text foretells the brutality of what would happen to Jesus after having put on flesh and coming to earth to live among humanity. We are reminded in this text of His purpose for coming. He came to suffer and die for us, not for any sins of His own, but for the world and you and I who continue to sin against God. God in His love and mercy for humanity, sent His Son Jesus to earth to take our place on the cross at Calvary by shedding His blood as full payment for our sins. Jesus' suffering and death brought about our healing and reconciliation back to God the Father. Jesus, in the shedding of His blood, brought about life for all of humanity. Romans 5:18 confirms the prediction of Isaiah 53:5 in saying “through the righteous act of Jesus came the justification of life for all of humanity.”
This scripture is such a connection to the Advent story as the new life in the birth of Jesus gives life to the world. The forgiveness through the life and death of Jesus has allowed life for all of the centuries down through the ages. We cannot fathom the love of God who would send his Son to suffer on our behalf, but God did it. He did it just for us and all of humanity.
Personal Worship Option:
Read or say the following sentence three times. Just for me - Jesus came, lived, and died just for me! As we go through Advent and wait for the arrival of the celebration day, remember that statement.
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