2024 Advent Devotion: Day 4

Wednesday, December 4

Isaiah 1:24-31; Luke 11:29-32

God’s Promise of Restoration and Justice

God declares to his enemies who he is; He reveals his intentions to punish those who have defiled Jerusalem with their own unrighteousness. He promises to restore His leaders and the righteousness He has intended for the city. There will be no hope for those who rebel against His judgment. The enemies of the Lord have been given an expiration date; repentance is the only path to salvation. We can find hope today in knowing that God is still in control of what happens to His people. Justice delayed does not mean it is denied; every promise the Lord has made will come to pass.

The Sign of Jonah

The crowd gathered around Jesus asking for a sign before they would follow him. Jesus said they represented the wicked generation. He said there would be no other sign than the sign of Jonah. The Queen of the South, along with the people of Nineveh, repented after the preaching of Jonah and Solomon. In their presence was one greater than both signs who was willing to give up his life for their sins. He was in the grave for three days, but on the third day, he rose. For the believer, you can find hope in knowing that Christ died in order for you to live. True believers need not a sign, but only faith in Christ to secure their eternal home.

Victor Glenn
School of Divinity Student