She Reads Truth: EmmanuelSample

Reflection

The prophet Malachi told it in no uncertain terms. The day was coming, “burning like an oven.” The wicked would meet their match, the arrogant would become like ash.

But we, Sisters, are His beloved. Our promise is what comes next.

“But for you who fear my name, the sun of righteousness shall rise with healing in its wings. You shall go out leaping like calves from the stall.” (v.2, ESV)

Malachi was speaking of the day Emmanuel would come, God with us, the day our rescue would begin and the day it would finally be complete. The Lord would send Elijah, whom we know in Scripture as John the Baptist, and he would turn families toward one another - fathers and sons, mothers and daughters. If you turn the page to the first chapter of the New Testament, Matthew Chapter 1, you’ll see some of those fathers and sons - the very lineage of Abraham and David and Christ. He would come, in the flesh. Our God would descend to us.

The language Malachi uses in this passage is staunch. “‘The day that is coming shall set them ablaze,’ says the Lord” (v.1, ESV).

But because of Jesus - because of Emmanuel - this is our promise, not our condemnation.

The Sun of Righteous shall rise, and with Him comes salvation.

Prayer

Turn our hearts to you, O Lord. As John the Baptist prepared the way for Jesus, prepare us, Holy Spirit. Create in us a stillness and understanding, a longing and expectation as we move through the coming weeks toward the celebration of our Savior’s birth. Amen.

Advent Action

Watch a sunrise today or tomorrow and reread the last chapter of Malachi.

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