King of Kings: An Advent Plan by New Life ChurchSample

The people of Israel were broken in the days of the prophet Isaiah. They’d been taken captive, exiled to different nations, and they continuously struggled to remain united in their faith. As the Lord looked into the brokenness of not only Israel but all humanity, He knew what was needed. Through Isaiah, God spoke the hope of a Savior as a lifeline to believers who were desperate for change. This Savior would be anointed by God to bring joy that replaced mourning, freedom for captives, comfort for the brokenhearted, and so much more. 

But, perhaps the most beautiful part of Isaiah’s prophecy of Jesus can be found in chapter 61 verse 9. Here, it’s foretold that the veil (a barrier in the temple between the people and the presence of God) would be torn and all people would then be able to approach the Spirit of God directly. Before Jesus came, the Israelites relied on priests to connect them with the Lord. But Jesus came to remove the barriers by giving His life for the sins that kept us separated. In doing so, He gave us direct access to the presence of our God at all times. “But now in Christ Jesus you who once were far off have been brought near by the blood of Christ. For He Himself is our peace . . .” (Ephesians 2:13-14a) 

It’s ultimately the body of Christ, the Church, who carries the presence of God throughout the world. The Spirit of the Lord that brings freedom, comfort, and healing is alive within us because Jesus has removed the veil. Our hope is that as you read these passages today, you would be reminded to daily abide in the presence of the Lord. 

Application: Isaiah lists powerful ways that the Lord will bring hope and healing to us. Which have you personally experienced? Spend five minutes in prayer, thanking Jesus for coming to us and bringing the hope of heaven to Earth.