Sorry that this post is coming to you a day late! It’s been a busy week/weekend around here, and I’m sure you’re feeling the Christmas rush as well. Tomorrow is my last (!) half day at work before the break, and I’m so excited to spend time with family, read, and relax. So let’s jump in to week three of Behold the Lamb of God.

Saul, David, and Trusting the Lord

Each time I read through this Advent devotional, I love how clearly Ramsey is able to paint the people and the stories we’ve all known in a different light. One of the best examples of this from this week’s reading is the story about Saul offering inappropriate sacrifices to God. I love the parallel he draws between Saul and David–Saul is headstrong and takes matters into his own hands, while David waits and trusts God to defeat Goliath for him.

Whispers of Jesus

I love also the way this book shows us the many, many ways that the Old Covenant foreshadows and suggests what will happen when Jesus arrives. From Saul needing a mediator to stand between God and man to the remnant of faith still alive in the Israelite’s during Herod’s time, with each chapter our anticipation grows.

Isaiah and Endurance

Lastly, I just wanted to point out one particularly beautiful passage from chapter 15:

For Isaiah, the endurance of Israel was one of the most compelling parts of her story…So tell them, Isaiah. Even as the sparks of Assyrian exile are fanning into flame, tell them God will send his Messiah. Tell them he hasn’t forgotten his promise to Abraham, that he hasn’t forgotten them. Tell those living under the blood red sky of the purifying fires that a new light is about to dawn. Tell them that God’s rescue is coming.

(108-9)

These chapters about the prophets and the intense longing of the Israelites makes me think of another passage that calls for our endurance:

Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles. And let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us, fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith. For the joy set before him he endured the cross,scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. Consider him who endured such opposition from sinners, so that you will not grow weary and lose heart. (Hebrews 12:1-2)

A Song to Share

While this isn’t a Christmas song, per se, I think the topic and lyrics are perfect for this season of waiting. It’s a beautiful season, but it can be difficult to get through. I’ve been reminded often this week that it’s the Lord we are waiting on, because only He can completely satisfy us.

You’re the Lord of all creation
And still you know my heart
The Author of Salvation
You’ve loved us from the start

Waiting here for You
With our hands lifted high in praise
And it’s You we adore
Singing Alleluia

You are everything You’ve promised
Your faithfulness is true
And we’re desperate for Your presence
All we need is You

Passages to Consider

No Bonhoeffer or other Scripture passages for you this week, but I really want to share this beautiful Gospel Coalition article about feeling forgotten or abandoned. It’s timely, and perfect for sharing with those who might be hurting in your life.

Questions for Reflection

1. What are you enduring right now? What is the promise waiting for you on the other side?
2. In which chapters of this book have you seen most clearly the hope of the Christmas message?
3. How can you share that hope with others?

Keep Reading, and Happy Advent!

Sarah