During Advent, we recognize our deep longings for Jesus to come and make things right. We acknowledge that humanity and all of the creation are groaning under the burden of sin and death.
During the second week of Advent, the Scriptures point us to John the Baptist who prepared the way for Jesus. “He came as a witness to testify concerning the light so that through him all might believe” (John 1:7).
Jesus’ first arrival brought the Light into the world -- the One who could save us from our sins and restore us to right relationship with God. And when He returns one day, He will bring those who have trusted in Him for our salvation into His kingdom forever.
As we watch and wait for the return of the King during the season of Advent, we also recognize those around us who are in darkness and need the Light of life. Like John the Baptist, who heralded the coming of the Messiah, we can take on the responsibility of telling others the good news about Jesus and inviting them into eternal life through Him.
Scripture
This week read the following from Luke 1:68-79:
“Praise be to the Lord, the God of Israel, because he has come to his people and redeemed them.
He has raised up a horn of salvation for us in the house of his servant David (as he said through his holy prophets of long ago), salvation from our enemies and from the hand of all who hate us—to show mercy to our ancestors and to remember his holy covenant, the oath he swore to our father Abraham: to rescue us from the hand of our enemies, and to enable us to serve him without fear in holiness and righteousness before him all our days.
And you, my child, will be called a prophet of the Most High; for you will go on before the Lord to prepare the way for him, to give his people the knowledge of salvation through the forgiveness of their sins, because of the tender mercy of our God, by which the rising sun will come to us from heaven to shine on those living in darkness and in the shadow of death, to guide our feet into the path of peace.”
Further Reading
Philippians 1:3-11
Luke 3:1-6
Malachi 3:1-4
Question to Consider
John the Baptist pointed people to the coming King. Who in your life needs to hear about Jesus? How can you reach out to them this week?
Activity Suggestions for Week 2 of Advent
Make an effort to reach out to someone who is in darkness this week. Bring them coffee, invite them on a walk, call and chat--do something to bring the light of Jesus into their lives.
Listen to part 1 of Handel’s Messiah. This piece uses words straight from the Scriptures associated with Advent. In it, you’ll hear the prophecies about the Saviour who is coming as the One who restores us to right relationship with Him.
Consider calling a seniors’ home this week and asking how you and your family might bring a blessing to the residents. Visiting during Covid might not be possible, but perhaps you could put together gift bags or send messages or do some outdoor caroling in front of people’s windows. Find some way to bring joy to those who might need the light of Jesus during this season.
