‘But a very little while, and Lebanon shall be changed into an orchard, and the orchard be regarded as a forest’, Isaiah 29:17.

This metaphor used in the first sentence of this passage illustrates the hope of God’s salvation for His people. It also indicates a revolution where the Gentiles will be included and the unbelieving Jews cut out. The Gentiles become the heirs of Israel and the Jews restored to their lineage. In other words, the ‘last will be first and the first shall be last’. By restructuring the ancient church, we become bigger, better….stronger. Lebanon (God’s people) will be restored to spiritual sight and the Holy Spirit will inspire understanding. I learn a lot about my present spiritual journey by listening to the past. Right now, it murmurs to me….endure patiently.

This is a difficult time of year for many people. The colder temps and lack of light signify a quiet, desolate time for me, not only because I find it difficult to be in the physical dark, but also because it forces me to to look at myself and listen to God. It’s a painful process, yet at the same time it’s the only place I find true peace. I think that’s the Holy Spirit inspiring understanding. In these times too, I feel a deep longing to be in that place where I am face to face with my Creator who is the only source of my happiness. In light of the Jews who faked their faith in ancient history, I will use these coming weeks to pray for political and religious leaders who make decisions based on man’s strength and not on God’s.

I learned that Isaiah makes more references to Christ than any other prophet in the Old Testament. You know the old saying, ‘Good things come to those who wait’. This Advent I wish you the patience, endurance and mutual affection, being love…that only Christ’s coming can fill your darkness. O come, O come Emmanuel….

Shalom.