A Hope Eternal - Advent DevotionalSample

During this third week of Advent—with its focus on love—we must remember the consistent love and kindness of God.

After 28 chapters of warnings and prophecies against the nation of Judah (Jeremiah 2-29), Jeremiah continues into the “Book of Consolation” (Jeremiah 30-33). These four chapters reaffirm and remind God’s people of His hope, joy, love, and peace toward them. Within this section, Jeremiah states positively: “The Lord appeared to us in the past, saying: ‘I have loved you with an everlasting love; I have drawn you with unfailing kindness.’" With these words, the prophet reminds the nation of Judah of three important truths.

First, God has consistently appeared to them in the past. God’s ways and words are not unknown. This announcement is not novel, for God has acted consistently throughout the generations. Second, God’s love is everlasting. The love with which God loves His people is not fickle, impatient, rude, malicious, self-seeking, or uninterested. God’s love is enduring, patient, benevolent, and always desires the benefit of others. His love does not fail at the first sign of trouble. Finally, God’s kindness is unfailing. He not only loves His people but has a disposition of kindness towards them. His kindness is attractive and continually draws people close. Here, Jeremiah reminds the people of God of His consistency, love, and kindness to draw them back to obedience.

For those committed to serving and loving Jesus Christ, who is the fullest expression of God’s consistency, love, and kindness, Advent is a season of hope, joy, love, and peace. However, perhaps this season reminds you, dear brothers and sisters, of the ways you are not walking in obedience to Christ. To you, I offer the same simple truths Jeremiah gave the people of Judah: God consistently desires to show you love and kindness. His deepest desire is to bring you back to Himself. He will never stop seeking after you and will never forsake you. He is for you and not against you. He will never leave you or forsake you. He is the One who loves and draws you close with kindness.

Prayer

Father, today remind us by the Holy Spirit of Your continued love and kindness. Whether we walk in the valley of the shadow of death or the sunlit field, remind us of Your consistent everlasting love and unfailing kindness. Remind me, oh God, of the ways and words of Christ, who, through obedience to the point of death, even death on a cross, displayed Your perfect love and kindness. It is by His name I pray. Amen.

Matthew Chandler, M.Div., serves as the director of operations for the Regent University School of Divinity.