Long Expected Devotional – Week 2
Sunday, December 10th
THE PROPHET OF PEACE | HEBREWS 3
This Advent season we receive the timely instruction from the author of Hebrews to “consider Jesus.” Consider Jesus because, as we are told, He has been counted worthy of more glory than Moses. As a prophet, Moses communicated the word of the Lord to Israel, teaching them how to live peacefully in covenant relationship with God by observing His law. Yet, like us, Israel constantly failed to uphold God’s law, living at odds with God.
The pattern we see of Israel in the Old Testament is their inability to keep God’s law, kindling God’s anger towards them. Thankfully, however, the story does not end there. Moses testified in Deuteronomy 18 of a greater prophet to come; one who would speak all that God commanded him to, and to whom Israel would be required to obey.
Jesus is the greater prophet Moses testified about: declaring the word of the Lord. But Jesus did not simply declare the word of the Lord; He is the Word of the Lord. The Gospel of John introduces Jesus in this way: “In the beginning was the Word, and Word was with God, and the Word was God.” The Word became flesh. This is the reason we celebrate Advent.
The glory of God was revealed in the miraculous birth of Jesus. The reason we celebrate the Christmas story is because we have the Easter story. Jesus entered the world, increased in wisdom and stature, lived a sinless life, and purchased the forgiveness of sins by His atoning sacrifice—faithful to all that God commanded of Him. Peace with God has now been purchased by Christ and given to those who hope and believe in Him.
This Christmas season, amid the busyness of work and family gatherings, let us take care of our own souls. Consider Jesus. Consider his worth in your life. Consider that we, like Israel, constantly fail to follow God’s commandments. Consider that our peace with God has been purchased by the Son, who was faithful to all that God commanded him. Indeed, there is now peace on earth. Let us rejoice!
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DISCUSSION QUESTIONS
- What are some moments this past year that you felt at peace with God?
- What are the moments this past year when you did not feel at peace with God?
- What caused you to feel this way? How did you respond?
- Make a list of some God’s promises that you can memorize and remember the next time you do not feel at peace with God.
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DAILY READINGS
Monday: Luke 1:1-4
Tuesday: Genesis 49:8-12
Wednesday: Isaiah 9:6-7, 11:1-5
Thursday: Micah 5:2-4
Friday: Matthew 1:1-17
Saturday: Matthew 1:18-25
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