COMFORT MY PEOPLE

Isaiah's words of preparation [Isaiah 40:1-11] close with a… tender and gracious vision of God's action in our midst.

"He will feed His flock like a shepherd;
He will gather the lambs in His arms;
He will carry them in His bosom;
He will gently lead the mother sheep."

When the preparations seem long and demanding, Isaiah reminds us that God also comes in tenderness, as a shepherd who cares for those most vulnerable and in need of care.

For too many in this season of Advent, the future holds little hope or promise. The death of a loved one, estrangement within family, depression, illness: any or all of these issues can conspire to close off life from its possibilities. Before repentance can be sounded, comfort must be given. "Comfort my people, says your God. Speak tenderly to Jerusalem."

That comfort also bears Advent's word of preparation. It declares that hope is still possible. It affirms that grace awaits.

-- John Indermark in Setting the Christmas Stage (Nashville, Tenn.: Upper Room Books. Used with permission.)


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