Malachi 3:1-4 (NRSV)
Read Malachi 3:1-4 on biblegateway.com
Chapter 3See, I am sending my messenger to prepare the way before me, and the Lord whom you seek will suddenly come to his temple. The messenger of the covenant in whom you delight-indeed, he is coming, says the Lord of hosts. Verse 2But who can endure the day of his coming, and who can stand when he appears? For he is like a refiner's fire and like fullers' soap; Verse 3he will sit as a refiner and purifier of silver, and he will purify the descendants of Levi and refine them like gold and silver, until they present offerings to the Lord in righteousness. Verse 4Then the offering of Judah and Jerusalem will be pleasing to the Lord as in the days of old and as in former years.
Devotion
We heard words like these in Advent, challenging us to prepare for the coming of the Lord. But then, the harsh words were softened by the birth of the child in Bethlehem. These words from Malachi serve as a reminder that the judgment is not yet final. We are to be alert and vigilant for Christ's return. Christmas complacency must be replaced with watchfulness, and willing and faithful service.
Prayer
Lord God, help us to keep alert for the coming of your Son, Jesus. Open our hearts that we may receive him always. Amen.