God loves us....

Isaiah 43:4 “Because you are precious in my eyes and glorious and because I love you.” (NAB)

 “Since you are precious and honored in my sight, and because I love you.” (NIV) 

 Heavenly Father, 

You spoke those words to Israel, your chosen people. How you love them and honor them and care for them! Later you extend your promises to the Gentiles as well. We, too are called by your name, loved and protected. Isaiah 49:6 says: “…I will also make you a light for the Gentiles, that you may bring my salvation to the ends of the earth.” 

Simeon recognized this “light” when he held the baby Jesus: “Let your servant depart in peace according to your word. For my eyes have seen your salvation which you have prepared for all people. A light for revelation to the Gentiles and the glory of your people, Israel.” Your Light came to all of us in Jesus Christ. 

When we look at the light and behold its glory, you invite us in. Advent is the time to be seeking, waiting, looking for the Christ child. We are precious to you and you honor us with your love come to earth in human form. We don’t know why you love us---we are unworthy, sinful, full of self-justification, pride, willfulness. But the love of Jesus Christ breaks down the walls of our sin and draws us home. We see the baby Jesus in the manger and kneel in wonder at your love in this precious child. You came as one of us---Immanuel----God with us! 

We watch the baby grow, become a man, our gentle Savior, teacher, Rabbi. We gaze in horror at the cross, our punishment borne by our loving Savior. We leap in joy at the resurrection, the risen Lord, Salvation’s plan complete! Good News! The Lord has come! Good News! He lives and reigns! Good News! Our God loves us and wants us as his children forever! Love---precious and glorious---through one perfect child, one Lord, one Savior! Thank you! Amen.