December 23, 2023  

Today's Reading: Introit for Advent 4

Daily Lectionary:Isaiah 43:25-44:20; Revelations 11:1-19

In them he has set a tent for the sun, which comes out like a bridegroom leaving his chamber, and, like a strong man, runs its course with joy. (Psalm 19:5)

In the Name + of Jesus. Amen. The heavens declare the glory of God, and the sky above proclaims his handiwork. The words of Psalm 19, are a proclamation that the very creation, created by the living and active Word of God testifies to His glory and handiwork. God’s Word does not fall flat. It accomplishes what it says it will do. We find comfort, and delight in this, knowing that when God says something, it is as good as done.

The word made flesh, Christ the bridegroom comes to us, not as a strong man, but as a lowly baby. The Christ child, the Word made flesh, submits Himself under the perfect law of the Lord. The Christ child, who would not live the life of a royal king, or be known as a strong man, is known as Jesus, the one who we put to death on the cross. 

It is in this weakness, that God Himself, bearing our sin is condemned under the law and receives our punishment.  That being hung on the cross, dying, before the heavens and all creation it would be as the Psalmist says, “Shower, O heavens, from above, and let the clouds rain down righteousness; let the earth open, that salvation and righteousness may bear fruit.” It is in this weakness that God Himself works salvation for the whole world.

It is in Christ crucified for you that the heavens declare the glory of God. It is in Christ crucified for you, that all creation proclaims the handiwork of the Lord. This crucified and risen Jesus, who came to you as a lowly baby is the one who declares you innocent, and blameless. In Jesus you are acceptable to God. 

The Gospel of Christ crucified, is the message that Christ commanded His church to proclaim to all parts of the world. The message that Jesus, the Son of God is the one who through the preaching of the word, and the giving of the Sacraments by your pastor, the eyes of the sinner might be opened, and salvation and righteousness would bear fruit. The Word that became flesh and dwelt among us, will come again in glory. Until that day, we rejoice that the bridegroom has emerged and will emerge again to be with His bride.  In the Name + of Jesus. Amen.

Lord Jesus, You are the Sun of righteousness with healing in His wings. Enlighten our darkened understanding by Your Holy Word. Enkindle our hearts and mold our will to walk in faith, love, and hope unto all pleasing. Let the light of Your Gospel shine on the nations that sit in darkness, and preserve Your Church to the day of Your coming. Amen. (Book of devotion: the Psalms” pg. 29)

-Vicar Justin Chester is vicar at Shepherd of the City in Fort Wayne, IN.

Audio Reflections Speaker: Pastor Jonathan Lackey is the pastor at Grace Lutheran Church, Vine Grove, Ky.

Study Christ's words on the cross to see how you can show more Christlike grace in your life. Perfect for group or individual study, each chapter has a Q&A at the end, and the back of the book includes a leader guide. Available now from Concordia Publishing House.