Advent Devotional: Dec 9

Psalm 72:1-7, 18-19 | Isaiah 30:19-26 | Acts 13:16-25

Whether you turn to the right or to the left, your ears will hear a voice behind you, saying, “This is the way; walk in it.” Then you will desecrate your idols overlaid with silver and your images covered with gold; you will throw them away like a menstrual cloth and say to them, “Away with you!” (Isaiah 30:21-22)

What is a human being? What is our purpose? James K. A. Smith, one of my favorite modern-day Christian thinkers, says that human beings are creatures who worship. I think he is correct. We humans give our most valuable things - our time, our energy, and our money - to the things that matter to us the most. That is what worship means: giving our most valuable possessions to that which is itself most valuable. This is why Jesus said, “for where your treasure is, there your heart will be also” (Matthew 6:21).

We sing about the birth of a king during Christmas. “Born is the king of Israel!” A king is the most valuable person within a kingdom. He leads the people, makes sure they have what is necessary for their well-being, and guides them into the future. Kings are worshiped. 

Jesus is King of Israel. He is God with us. The God-Man. I believe there is nothing more valuable than God - Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. But if I am not careful, I can quickly lose sight of God and begin to give more of my time, energy, and money to other things. Before I know it, those things become idols. I have made idols out of my family, my work, school, technology, and travel. 

Advent reminds us that Jesus is coming. God is with us! Part of preparing for the return of Jesus is recognizing the idols in our lives, turning away from them, and returning to worship of God. When we ask God for help, the Holy Spirit will show us the way and invite us to walk with him.

Reflection questions: How do you make time to listen for God’s voice telling you, “this is the way; walk in it”? What things receive your most valuable possessions - your time, energy, and money? What do you value most? What is God asking you to stop worshiping?

Readings from the Revised Common Lectionary
Scripture taken from Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV®, ©1973, 1978, 1984, 2011, Biblica, Inc.
Reflections by Rev. Serena J. Wolfe