24 December 2010

Psalm 45, 46; Isaiah 35.1-10; Revelation 22.12-21; Luke 1.67-80

Isaiah sees the restoration of all that is broken or incomplete. He sees it in the natural order of things and in human beings and rejoices. The prophetic word is hopeful and joyful. What would it look like to see the world transformed in these ways? How great would be our joy. In Jesus we can begin to see the world changing as Isaiah sees here and as Mary spoke of in yesterday’s Gospel reading. We can see lives changed by Jesus through the power of the Holy Spirit. The kingdom is breaking in and yet it is not completely here. We can observe the spiritual kingdom and that should cause us to long for the restoration of creation to its intended order as well. As Paul wrote, all creature groans in anticipation of the revelation of the children of God. Everything will participate in the restoration as all things participated in the curse in Genesis 3.

Zechariah, John’s father, is moved to prophesy as well as we read here. The words are directed to his own son but in light of Mary’s son. He prophesies concerning John’s mission and ministry of proclamation and preparation. Zechariah sees a future where the enemies of Israel are defeated and a peaceable kingdom established. His vision awaits fulfillment although we could argue that the shalom of God is established spiritually in Jesus for those who find their rest in Him. So often we discount that establishment of peace within in the midst of the storms of life because we are, like Martha, anxious about many things. There is one thing needful, to wait upon the Lord and to rest in Him.

As we contemplate the coming of Jesus into the world He created in order to redeem it and as we await His coming again in great glory, we should indeed say with John, “Come Lord Jesus.”

Be still, and know that He is God.
He will be exalted among the nations,
He will be exalted in the earth!