2023 Advent Devotion: Day 9

Monday, December 11

Psalm 27; Isaiah 26:7-15; Acts 2:37-42

The opening words of Psalm 27 set the tone for our Advent reflection. The psalmist declares that the Lord is his light and salvation. Amid darkness and fear, we find our hope in God, the source of our salvation, the reason that we wait, the reason that we trust. Just as the Israelites waited for the promised Messiah, we too wait with hope for the fulfillment of God’s promises. Advent is a time of waiting and preparation, a time to reflect on the profound significance of Christ’s coming into the world.

If we were asked our favorite things to do, certainly waiting would not be high on the list. Waiting, however, isn’t a solo act in this scene of life. Waiting acknowledges our trust. Psalm 27 highlights David’s trust through circumstances that have the proclivity to alienate us from our faith in God. To be surrounded by one’s enemies with war all around, yet remaining steadfast and confident, acknowledges not only David’s trust in the Lord, but more importantly God’s sovereignty. God had continuously proven himself to David.

Throughout this psalm, David displays his trust in God to protect, to deliver and to guide. Verse 6 states that “now my head will be lifted up above my enemies.” In our waiting we sometimes take our focus off of the one in whom we put our trust. During this Advent season, while we celebrate the birth of our Savior, let us find assurance in his presence. For this reason, we lift our heads up above our enemies. David asked that he may dwell in the house of the Lord all the days of his life. This Advent, let us seek the presence of God as our ultimate guide, desiring to dwell in his presence all the days of our lives.

Overall, Psalm 27 is a beautiful expression of faith and dependence on God in times of uncertainty and difficulty. May our hearts resonate with unwavering faith, knowing that in Christ, our deepest longings and desires are fulfilled. Advent calls us to wait with hope and courage, trusting that God will never forsake us.

Chadrick Roseboro Sr.
School of Divinity Student