The Healing Jesus: An Advent Devotional to Encourage Anybody and EverybodySample

JESUS: THE ONE WHO HEALS

For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given: and the government shall be upon his shoulders: and his name shall be called Wonderful, Counselor, The Mighty God, The Everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace.

WONDERFUL: It's a wonder that I survived Herod's wicked schemes. I came from a small town in Bethlehem. As a tiny baby who would save the world, there was no better way to arrive. People were expecting a king, but I came gentle and lowly. You do not have to be afraid of the rulers and authorities of this world. It is okay to be small. I am on your side.

COUNSELOR: I will never leave you to figure out how to earn my good graces on your own. I am your counselor, and always willing to listen. I invite people to learn from me. I called ordinary men and women to be my lights to the world and promised to send my Spirit with them.

THE MIGHTY GOD: Be comforted by my strength, not afraid. As personal obstacles come your way, it's tempting to be fearful. I see the difficult situations Christians face today and the outright persecution of many churches. When trouble comes, is easy to begin looking at the wind and waves. But I am mightier than stormy seas. I am the author of all things. Trust in my unfailing love.

THE EVERLASTING FATHER: I may have only had my ministry for three short years, but my Spirit is in each of you. That Spirit is everlasting. What's more, as a child of the heavenly Father, you are now an eternal being. Your journey on earth is insignificant compared to your eternity with Me. It will be amazing!

THE PRINCE OF PEACE: I'll close with Paul's words of comfort to the church of Thessalonica. Those words written for that church are as real for you this Christmas as they ever were: "Now may the Lord of peace himself give you peace at all times, in all ways. The Lord be with you all. Amen"

Jesus is healing, offering you love and peace.

Questions for Talk it Over:

1. Which name of God from above resonates the most with you?

2. Where do you need comfort this Christmas?

3. As Jesus comforts you, how can you bring comfort to someone else?