the Words of the Angels

NOVEMBER 27–28 – PEACE!
ISAIAH 2:1-5, MATTHEW 24:36-49
Jesus describes his second sudden, unexpected coming as a time when
the marriage of heaven and earth will be complete. Heaven and earth are united,
ushering in the vision of Isaiah when God’s Kingdom reigns in peace.
We are called to live into that vision today.

DECEMBER 4–5 – JOY!
ISAIAH 12:1-6, LUKE 1:5-25
The angel Gabriel tells Zechariah that Elizabeth will bear a son (John The Baptist)
who will bring joy to the people. Isaiah's words prophesy an even greater joy
when the Holy One of Israel is born.
We are called to live in a state of expectant joy today.

DECEMBER 11–12 – JUSTICE!
ISAIAH 11:1-10, MATTHEW 3:1-12
John the Baptist calls for repentance and renewal in preparation for the One who is to come. This coming Messiah from the line of David will fulfill the words
of the prophet Isaiah. This One will join heaven and earth, and bring about
a new living reality of righteousness and justice.
We are called to live into that vision today.

DECEMBER 18–19 – INCARNATION!
ISAIAH 7:10-16, MATTHEW 1:18-25
God is coming among us in the One envisioned by Isaiah: “the young woman is with child and shall bear a son, and shall name him Emmanuel.” God is with us. God is near to us.
The Kingdom of heaven comes to earth in the One named Emmanuel, “God with us.” Because Christ comes to be among us, everything is changed.
We are called to live into that vision today.

DECEMBER 24-25 – GLORY!
ISAIAH 62:6-12, LUKE 2:8-20
The glory of God is revealed first to common shepherds, who then share the good news
of Jesus’ birth with others. Isaiah’s vision of glory was the re-establishment of Jerusalem. God chose to reveal his glory in the newborn Savior, Jesus Christ.
We are called to live into that vision today.

DECEMBER 26 – PRESENCE!
ISAIAH 63:7-9
God is no longer distant and angry. God is with us. Because God is present with us, we can expect to be redeemed, lifted up, and carried ... the work of God throughout all time.