A Hope Eternal - Advent DevotionalSample

Let the redeemed of the LORD say so. We get joy when we think of what the LORD has done for us. Advent season is a reminder that we can rejoice in knowing that Jesus Christ was born, became the ransom for many, died for our sins, rose from the grave, and provided redemption for mankind. Jesus Christ came to preach the Gospel, to heal, set free, and deliver the brokenhearted. He opened eyes so that they might see, opened mouths so they may talk, healed legs so they may walk, and opened ears that they may hear. Through the preaching of the Gospel (Good News), those who were captive are made free. They can have joy when thinking of what Jesus Christ has done for them.

When reading Isaiah 35:10, several things stand out. The passage starts out declaring that life will come from a desolate and wilderness place through joy and rejoicing and that the glory of the LORD will be shown. Secondly, God’s strength is revealed, and there is encouragement not to be fearful because God will come with recompense and save you. Third, the blind, the deaf, the lame, and the mute are healed by the healing power of God. Fourth, there are water and springs of water in the wilderness, which brings about life and growth. Jesus is life. Fifth, we see a place where only the redeemed can come. This redeemed place is called the “Way of Holiness.” Another name for this place is called Heaven. The passage ends by letting us know that one can sing with joy, will have everlasting joy, an eternal joy, and that there will be no sorrow in this place.

During this Advent season, we can have joy knowing that Jesus Christ will come again. We can have joy knowing that we will go to Heaven to reign with Jesus Christ when we have accepted His redemption and His saving grace.

Prayer

We pray that we have the joy of the LORD in our hearts, a joy that brings about life out of a desolate place. We pray for anyone that may be in a barren place that the LORD brings you great and everlasting joy. We pray that the LORD shows you His glory. The LORD is the giver of eternal life and growth. We pray that you accept the joy of redemption, which is Jesus Christ our Lord and Personal Savior, so we can go and experience that Holy Place called Heaven.

Tonya Banks, Ph.D., serves as an adjunct faculty member for the Regent University School of Divinity.