A Voice in the Wilderness

 Being the bit in between the Nativity and His baptism, this passage seemed appropriate. It helps us to appreciate that Christ is fully God and fully man, tempted as we are, yet without sin. Which is what made Him the perfect sacrifce, and also the perfect comforter. Becase, whatever you're going through, He gets it. And whatever you've done, He'll forgive it. Thanks be to God. If you enoyed that, check out my website, vwiderness.substack.com  And then, tell your friends!

 This passage actually speaks of John the Baptist. But it's included both to confirm the prophecy about Elijah, as well as to show how Christ Jesus' birth was surrounded by miracles and wonders. Which is why I share it now. Take a moment to think about just how awesome the Gospel really is. And then, let it register that the story includes you! If you enjoyed that, check out my Substack, vwilderness.substack.com  And then, tell your friends!

 Our God is truly above all else, and gorified forever. But here's the thing. David was writing long before Christ, and before the present covenant. Jesus was sent to atone for our sins, but also to walk among us. As He said, those who have seen me have seen the Father. God doesn't change, but has always been found by any seeking. Still, in Christ Jesus, the search is much easier. Which brings us that much closer, and brings him that much more glory, and honor, and power, forever. And if you enjoyed that, check out my Substack, vwilderness.substack.com  And then, tell your friends!

 This whole chapter speaks of the arrival of Jesus, roughly 700 years before His birth. The prophet Isaiah talks about joy and blessing all through it, of reunion and comfort, and He wraps things up with a promise of strength and redemption. The thing is, while Isaiah was writing long before it happened, the true meaing of  Christmas is God doing all this for us! If you enjoyed that, check out my Substack, vwilderness.substack.com  And then tell your friends!

 We would all be better off if we remembered this more often. As the creed says, "He made all things for us men, and our salvation." Under grace, we're allowed to do whatever we want! Just be careful, because not everything is good for us. Like, juggling chainsaws, or playing in traffic. Some things are simply bad ideas. Fortunatey, The Holy Spirit is our perfect helper and guide. If we stick with Him, everything will be fine. If you enjoyed that, check out my Substack, vwilderness.substack.com  And then, tell your friends!

 Easy stuff right? Except, anybody who's tried it  knows better. Of course, He goes on to specify, "With every part of you." (prphrs.) Which does make it a bit more intense. But while the trials and hardships are very real, so is the "everlasting joy." and "peace beyond understanding." So, take heart! Our Lord has overcome the world. If you enjoyed that, check out my Substack, vwilderness.substack.com  And then, tell your friends!