Advent Week 1: The Prophecy

Have you ever been waiting for a message that seemed to take forever? Maybe it was an invitation to a friend’s party or Mom and Dad saying they were bringing your favorite meal for dinner. Perhaps you dream that the principal will cancel school because of a snow day.

In today's Bible reading and memory verse, we will see two important messages about the birth of Jesus Christ. 

Isaiah was a prophet, which is someone who delivers a message from God. A true prophet only speaks God’s truth and not their own. The message was a prophecy, and Judah needed Isaiah’s message. It was a difficult time for Judah, and they needed help. The prophet Isaiah brought a promise from God: hope for their future. He told Judah about a baby whose different names would reflect who he was and what he could do for God’s people.

Later, in Matthew 1:18-24, the gospel writer tells the story of the promised Messiah. This time, the Lord sent an angel to deliver his message. The angel assured Joseph, “So the Lord's promise came true, just as the prophet had said.” Because God always keeps his promises, we can trust him to do whatever he says. When you find yourself in a hard situation, remember God’s words to be strong and courageous and his promise to help you (Joshua 1:9). God can be trusted.

During this Advent season, we can remember God’s faithfulness and our hope in Jesus, our Lord. Think of the names of Jesus: Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Eternal Father, Prince of Peace. How do these names bring us hope? How do they express God’s faithfulness? Commit Isaiah 9:6 to memory to help you prepare for Advent this week.

Prayer

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