⁷How beautiful on the mountains are the feet of the messenger who brings good news, the good news of peace and salvation, the news that the God of Israel reigns! ⁸The watchmen shout and sing with joy, for before their very eyes they see the Lord returning to Jerusalem. ⁹Let the ruins of Jerusalem break into joyful song, for the Lord has comforted his people. He has redeemed Jerusalem. ¹⁰The Lord has demonstrated his holy power before the eyes of all the nations. All the ends of the earth will see the victory of our God.

Isaiah 52:7-10

When the messenger approaches, the watchmen shout with joy because they see him coming. The watchmen, in turn, shout to those waiting for news of the power of God demonstrated.

I am challenged to consider if I am watching — watching for demonstrations of the power of God. Perhaps I do not sing and shout for joy because I am no longer watching, waiting, expecting.

At the time of Jesus birth, it was the shepherds who heralded the news of his birth. They weren’t the messengers anyone expected, so the message was suspect. Who might the messengers be in your life, different than you expected, but still bringing the message of God’s power?

My prayer today: Lord open my ears to hear your proclamation of peace and salvation. Open my eyes to see you moving with power. Open my heart to receive your comfort. Open my mouth to declare your praises of victory!