The Road Towards Jesus - Advent Devotional Day 7

Scripture
"Listen! It’s the voice of someone shouting,
'Clear the way through the wilderness for the Lord!
Make a straight highway through the wasteland for our God!
Fill in the valleys, and level the mountains and hills.
Straighten the curves, and smooth out the rough places.
Then the glory of the Lord will be revealed
and all people will see it together.
The Lord has spoken!'
A voice said, 'Shout!'
I asked, 'What should I shout?'
'Shout that people are like the grass.
Their beauty fades as quickly as the flowers in a field.
The grass withers and the flowers fade beneath the breath of the Lord.
And so it is with people.
The grass withers and the flowers fade, but the word of our God stands forever.'” - Isaiah 40:3-8

Reflection
Entering Advent, a season of hope and anticipation, I'm struck by the value of waiting. Let's be honest, waiting can be tough, even downright frustrating, but it's where life truly blossoms.

In today's scripture, we Isaiah offering a message of hope to the Israelites and to us. Chapters 1-39 recount their journey, marked by intentional rebellion and a desire to do things on their own terms. This led to feelings of abandonment, frustration, and uncertainty – feelings many of us know all too well.

But if we read on to chapter 40 Isaiah highlights the impactful words and actions of John the Baptist. John announces the arrival of someone greater, who will not only hear our cries, but also heal our bodies and communities from inequalities. This person will usher in a new way of living, seeing, and doing in the world. In essence, Isaiah reminds us that a path is being cleared specifically for us, so we can experience the depth of God's love, surpassing any human connection. 

So, here's the question: Are you open and prepared for a new path, even if you can't see where it leads?

This past summer, I felt a nudge towards something unconventional yet essential for me. I sold my home in Overland (mid-suburban area) after three years and moved into a 600 sq. ft. apartment downtown, approximately six weeks ago. Hailing from the inner city of Cleveland, Ohio, I hold a deep passion for social justice, community, and those on the margins. I firmly believe we serve a mighty God, one who offers refuge and hope in places often overlooked. It's different waking up to the city's hustle and bustle each morning, knowing that some won't have a meal or a place to rest their head today or tomorrow. However, recognizing and witnessing these harsh realities helps me see, sense, and know God in the everydayness of life.

No, I'm not suggesting you uproot your life like I did (unless you feel called to). Instead, consider this an invitation to discern, pray, and heed the guidance of the Holy Spirit and trusted counsel. Each morning, I say, "Hey GOD, Thank you," for teaching me to trust my instincts, knowing that my passions and desires will lead me on paths far grander than I can imagine if I simply listen and wait. God is crafting a new, sacred path within you and through you. Embrace it.

Prayer
Hey big God,
I just want to say thanks. Thanks for being with us on this journey called life, especially when we feel a bit lost or overwhelmed by everything on our plate. We're grateful that you're always reaching out, inviting us into a deeper connection with you, no matter what season we're in. You lay out paths and roads that are beyond what we can imagine. Help us to pick up on the gentle nudges and movements of your spirit in our everyday lives. In this season, open our eyes to new possibilities, and give us the courage to journey down unfamiliar paths. Remind us that you're always by our side, offering hope and comfort through your love and words. In Jesus' name, amen.