Advent Day 24: Read: Luke 24

It was many years ago, a lifetime it seems. I struggled under the heavy burden of religious obligation. Weary and tired, like a candle flickering before it is extinguished, I nearly collapsed under the weight. And then I read this scripture:

“Look at my Servant, whom I have chosen. He is my Beloved, who pleases me. I will put my Spirit upon him, and he will proclaim justice to the nations. He will not fight or shout or raise his voice in public. He will not crush the weakest reed or put out a flickering candle. Finally he will cause justice to be victorious. And his name will be the hope of all the world.”

Matthew 12:18-20

I remember reading this passage like it was yesterday. My heart and soul gave a little leap and my eyes turned upward. He wasn’t going to leave me stranded. It wasn’t his idea that I be broken or snuffed out. He gently steadied me, supported my weak knees and protected the flame of my life so I might burn bright again. He is my hope!

Jesus truly is the hope of the nations. His life and death, while not what the religious people expected, set us free from the constraints of sin and the punishment of death. Go ahead! Do a little twirl! Jump and shout! He is our hope!

Congratulations to all those who took on the Advent challenge to read the entire book of Luke in the last 24 days! I would love to hear what you gleaned from this reading of the Gospel of Luke.