Isaiah 9:1-4 (NRSV)
Read Isaiah 9:1-4 on biblegateway.com
Chapter 9But there will be no gloom for those who were in anguish. In the former time he brought into contempt the land of Zebulun and the land of Naphtali, but in the latter time he will make glorious the way of the sea, the land beyond the Jordan, Galilee of the nations. Verse 2The people who walked in darkness have seen a great light; those who lived in a land of deep darkness- on them light has shined. Verse 3You have multiplied the nation, you have increased its joy; they rejoice before you as with joy at the harvest, as people exult when dividing plunder. Verse 4For the yoke of their burden, and the bar across their shoulders, the rod of their oppressor, you have broken as on the day of Midian.
Devotion
From war torn lands and drug infested neighborhoods, they walk by faith muddled with fear and dread, grief and hope. Darkness shaped like jungle vines and high raging rivers. Bodies buried along the trail give way to a safe and just future peering through the steel fence on the southern border near El Paso. Shelter offered, sandwiches eaten, and warm running water tasted. A smile on the stranger’s face, a warm pillow to lay one’s head, and the news of a new baby on the way. Joy increases with each safe day experienced. The baby news brings the community to song. Burdens shared. For those who follow and trust Jesus, it is the light of the Holy Spirit darting through us that guides the love and service to our neighbors in need.
Prayer
God of Radiant Love, our world is plagued by the darkness of injustice and despair. By your holy light, scatter the darkness and fill us with the sure and certain hope of your redeeming love for all. In Jesus’ name we pray. Amen.
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