Advent: Celebrating Christ's ArrivalSample

Day 5: Love

Devotional:

In this culminating theme of Advent, we delve into the profound promise that God bestows upon David and his lineage. God enters into a covenant with David, vowing that one of his descendants will establish an everlasting kingdom and bear the title of God’s own Son.

God’s love for David serves as a reflection of His love for the entire nation of Israel, and His love for Israel mirrors His boundless love for all of humanity. A pivotal moment unfolds when the Babylonian empire conquers Israel over five centuries before the era of Jesus, causing the lineage of David to lose its earthly kingdom.

During their exile, the people of God clung to the promise made to David, contemplating whether and when God would fulfill this pledge and restore His Kingdom and King for all eternity. Even upon the return of the Jewish people to their homeland, they endured foreign occupation—from Persia to Greece to Rome—all while pondering and eagerly awaiting the fulfillment of God’s promise. For, if God’s promise remains unfulfilled, then His love, not only for David and Israel but also for the entire world, might be called into question.

Then, one extraordinary day, an angelic visitation descends upon a humble Nazarene girl named Mary. The angel proclaims that the time has come for the son of David, who is also the Son of God, to be born. He will usher in an everlasting kingdom.

Mary serves as a poignant symbol, representing the collective anticipation of the people of Israel. She carries within her womb the hope of Israel, the promised child, the Messiah. God’s promise is realized; His love remains steadfast, and we, like Mary, must patiently await the advent of that promised time.

During the Advent season, we align ourselves with Mary’s expectant waiting and trust in God’s unwavering love. It is a season of anticipation and hope, as we believe that God’s love, as exemplified in the birth of Jesus, transcends time and fills our lives with profound and enduring love.

Reflection Point: Just as you will give and receive Christmas gifts, consider how you can also share the gift of Jesus with those who may not yet know Him during this Advent season. Share the light of Christ’s love with others through your actions and words. Pray for children, youth, and families worldwide to experience the love of Christ.