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1 Comfort, comfort my people, says your God. 2 Speak tenderly to Jerusalem, and proclaim to her that her hard service has been completed, that her sin has been paid for, that she has received from the LORD’s hand double for all her sins. 3 A voice of one calling: “In the wilderness prepare the way for the LORD ; make straight in the desert a highway for our God. 4 Every valley shall be raised up, every mountain and hill made low; the rough ground shall become level, the rugged places a plain. 5 And the glory of the LORD will be revealed, and all people will see it together. For the mouth of the LORD has spoken.” 6 A voice says, “Cry out.” And I said, “What shall I cry?” “All people are like grass, and all their faithfulness is like the flowers of the field. 7 The grass withers and the flowers fall, because the breath of the LORD blows on them. Surely the people are grass. 8 The grass withers and the flowers fall, but the word of our God endures forever.” 9 You who bring good news to Zion, go up on a high mountain. You who bring good news to Jerusalem,lift up your voice with a shout, lift it up, do not be afraid; say to the towns of Judah, “Here is your God!” 10 See, the Sovereign LORD comes with power, and he rules with a mighty arm. See, his reward is with him, and his recompense accompanies him. 11 He tends his flock like a shepherd: He gathers the lambs in his arms and carries them close to his heart; he gently leads those that have young. (Isaiah 40:1-11 NIV Bible)
Welcome to Wednesday, dear Friend! May this middle of the week devotional bless you as you prepare for the rest of the work week, and for your Sabbath rest and worship.
Do you like comfort food? Did you know that the term comfort food is from as recent as the 1960s when a newspaper article that made the connection between food and emotional well-being. However, its essence stretches further into history, tracing back to ancient times when certain foods were associated with healing and soothing properties. Throughout centuries, traditional dishes prepared by family members, often with simple, familiar ingredients, became synonymous with comfort. The definition of comfort food is personal and culturally diverse. Common comfort foods include dishes like macaroni and cheese, mashed potatoes, chicken soup, grilled cheese sandwiches, chocolate, ice cream, and various baked goods. These foods often carry sentimental value, reminiscent of childhood memories or moments spent with loved ones. The warmth and familiarity of these dishes evoke a sense of security and emotional well-being. Rooted in nostalgia and emotion, it brings solace during moments of distress, homesickness, or weariness. Understanding the concept of comfort food involves delving into its historical origins, its psychological effects, and the array of dishes that evoke feelings of comfort.
We've learned from babies that their uneasiness with whatever triggered their cries are soothed by food. And, if we're not careful that carries over to being children, adolescents, and adults who seek comfort in food or other remedies, leading to harmful effects on our bodies. Life, on its own, bring stress enough, but imagine the stresses of historical events that led to your people being captured and placed under the dominion of foreigners, as was the case with the people of God? Imagine the stress of years-long sin because of your departure from God's grace, and God's presence? The need is great for comfort, and so here comes the prophet Isaiah with this powerful Advent passage. It is one of great comfort and consolation. And the prophet is only speaking from God's mouth. The message is clear: The time of your suffering is over; time served is all the time you need to serve, and another voice is to come, with a message of another who is to come, Who will make all things right; Who will make straight the path from humans to God, Who brings the Good News. And on top of all that, He will be the shepherd who lovingly and tenderly cares for His flock, now and forever. The Lord's compassion knows no end. His guidance is also eternal; He leads compassion and care. He also doesn't just lead, He carries and comforts those who are in need. And His coming will not be one of overwhelming power, but of gentle guidance and loving care.
PRAYER: Gracious Father, we find comfort in Your unchanging promises and enduring Word. As we navigate life’s transient nature, help us lean on Your unfailing love. Prepare our hearts to welcome Your presence and to receive Your comforting embrace. May we find solace in Your gentle guidance and strength in Your tender care. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.
Have a great and blessed day in the Lord! YOUR CALL TO ACTION: Make ready your heart for Jesus.
Receive my love for you, and my thankfulness to Him for you!
Pastor Eradio Valverde, Jr.
