Friday, December 16: Scripture – Isaiah 42:5-9, NIV
5 This is what God the Lord says – the Creator of the heavens, who stretches them out, who spreads out the earth with all that springs from it, who gives breath to its people, and life to those who walk on it:
6 “I, the Lord, have called you in righteousness; I will take hold of your hand. I will keep you and will make you to be a covenant for the people and a light for the Gentiles,
7 to open eyes that are blind, to free captives from prison and to release from the dungeon those who sit in darkness.
8 “I am the Lord; that is my name! I will not yield my glory to another or my praise to idols.
9 See, the former things have taken place, and new things I declare; before they spring into being I announce them to you.”
We have all held many hands. Parents hold a child’s hand to keep them safe. We shake hands as a greeting with those we meet. Hands are held in prayer. We hold hands as a sign of love. My sister and I held hands for years. First her hand covered mine, years later mine covered hers. Love, trust, joy, and peace – these can all be felt by holding hands.
God says he will take hold of our hand and keep us. He will make us to be a covenant and a light to others. There is no greater love than from God. His hands keep us safe. His grace covers us every day. He is there with us in times of great joy, and holds us when we grieve. The Creator’s hand is the giver of life. Through God’s love, we can be a light to those around us.
During this season of Advent, we are reminded of the light of our Heavenly Father. As we draw near to God, his light shines brightly on us. Pray we can all share the joy and love of being held in God’s hands.
Prayer: Father God, thank you for the precious gift of life. Help us to remember the light comes from you. Guide us each day to seek out those who need love, compassion, and grace. Help us to extend the hand of Jesus this Christmas. We ask these things in the name of the Son of the Living God, Amen.
Karen Fuqua