Isaiah 40:1-2 (NRSV)
Read Isaiah 40:1-2 on biblegateway.com
Chapter 40Comfort, O comfort my people, says your God. Verse 2Speak tenderly to Jerusalem, and cry to her that she has served her term, that her penalty is paid, that she has received from the Lord's hand double for all her sins.
Devotion
Each December the airwaves are filled with advertisements for products that promise to make our lives more comfortable. The prophet Isaiah sings a different song in these verses. His is a message of comfort and restoration coming from the very heart of God. God promises that the time of trial has come to an end for ancient Israel and for all who look to God for hope. It’s a message that quickens our ears to pay attention to all that God has to say. Where in your life are you longing to hear such a word today?
Prayer
Stir up our hearts, O God, and prepare our ears to hear the good news you are speaking today. Hold in your heart those we know to be weighed down by grief or sorrow and all who are discouraged. Help them hear your holy word of comfort. In Christ’s name we pray. Amen.