This advent season, it feels like even more than usual our world is full of anxiety. In Europe, Africa and Asia normal people fear the next terror attack. From Syria, thousands upon thousands move on foot, by train, boat, truck, whatever they can find, to escape the bombs. ISIS continues its madness.
Here in America, there have been well over 300 mass shootings this year. PTSD has ruined thousands of the most promising young lives. Some groups feel targeted by our police; others feel victimized by our government. We can't even find civil ways to discuss our differences anymore.
It's a time of gloom and darkness, a time of distress. A timely time to remember the promise God made to his people through the prophet many centuries ago (Isa 9:1-2) "Nevertheless, there will be no more gloom for those who were in distress . . . . The people walking in darkness have seen a great light; on those living in the land of deep darkness a light has dawned."
What a promise for our times! "No more gloom for those who were in distress."
As I begin to anticipate Christmas, I think again as I so often do that this world desperately needs Jesus. I desperately need Jesus.
For the Syrian refugees, the young inner-city men dying by gunfire, the rancorous liberals and conservatives with their strident accusations and name-calling, and for my own poor soul, I pray, "Come, Lord Jesus. Come quickly."
"For to us a child is born,
to us a son is given,
and the government will be on his shoulders.
And he will be called
Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God,
Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.
Of the greatness of his government and peace
there will be no end." Isaiah 9:6
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