Did your parents know your future upon your birth? Did they know your destiny? How about in your teenage years? Was your specific life calling presented to you in a clear way?
How about nearer term? Life can bring many expectations but Earthly plans are always subject to change, disruption and ultimately disappointment.
This week a wonderful young man had a hope and dream related to his destiny crushed; a very painful loss. The young man was prepared for victory and not prepared for a loss whatsoever. Beforehand there was great anticipation, preparation, and excitement. There was little doubt about the outcome; everything was going to be great! He was prayerful, pleading to God for a specific result. Of course God listened as he always listens, however the answer this time was “no”.
Worse than the dream being crushed, there are suspicions around the circumstances. False accusations and suspected manipulation which point to deception. We know that in this life there will be trouble, but when it hits home, it hurts badly.
We crave the truth, justice and a return to joy. And that’s life here on Earth. We seek after these things but as each of these Bible Journal posts convey, there is only one way to the truth and the life, and that’s a future with Jesus. We write to you in order to prepare you (and ourselves) for what is to come, for this future.
Today’s reading is the prophecy of Zechariah (Luke 1:67-80). Zechariah spoke of the future, the destiny of his son John (now known as John the Baptist). John would be the one to “prepare the way” for the coming Messiah, Jesus Christ.
“And you, my little son,
will be called the prophet of the Most High,
because you will prepare the way for the Lord. (Luke 1:76)
The Advent season is about preparation; getting our hearts ready for the celebration of the birth of Jesus. We celebrate because he brings us salvation through forgiveness of our many sins.
You will tell his people how to find salvation
through forgiveness of their sins. (Luke 1:77)
No matter your circumstances today, perhaps in the darkness, take hope in the morning light as with each day we move closer to the celebration of His birth, we also move closer to our step into eternity.
Because of God’s tender mercy,
the morning light from heaven is about to break upon us,
to give light to those who sit in darkness and in the shadow of death,
and to guide us to the path of peace.” (Luke 1:78-79)