Jesus is Hope – Day 1

Jesus is Hope – Day 1

Hope in the Midst of Turmoil

(adapted from 12/3/23 sermon, “Jesus is Hope”)

This fulfilled the prophecy of Isaiah concerning him: “Look at my Servant, whom I have chosen. He is my Beloved, who pleases me. I will put my Spirit upon him, and he will proclaim justice to the nations. He will not fight or shout or raise his voice in public. He will not crush the weakest reed or put out a flickering candle. Finally he will cause justice to be victorious. And his name will be the hope of all the world.”

Matthew 12:17-21 (NLT)
DEVOTIONAL:

Jesus came into a world that was marked by violence, injustice, and oppression. He did not seek to overthrow the existing powers by force, but rather to demonstrate a different kind of power: the power of love, mercy, and grace. He fulfilled the prophecy of Isaiah, who described him as God’s chosen Servant, who would bring justice to the nations without breaking a bruised reed or quenching a smoldering wick. He was the hope of the world, not because he wielded a sword, but because he bore a cross.

He invites us to follow his example, to be peacemakers and justice-seekers, to serve the poor and the oppressed, to love our enemies and pray for those who persecute us. He challenges us to rethink our notions of leadership and power, and to align ourselves with his kingdom, which is not of this world.

REFLECTION QUESTIONS:
  1. How do Jesus’ qualities as a Servant-Leader challenge conventional views of power and authority?
  2. In what ways can we emulate Jesus’ approach to addressing societal issues without compromising our faith?
  3. How can we find comfort in knowing that God’s plan for justice extends beyond our immediate struggles?
PERSONAL APPLICATION:

Take a moment to reflect on a specific area of your life where you need hope. Surrender it to God in prayer, trusting His justice and finding solace in the transformative power of Christ.

LOVE IN ACTION:

Seek an opportunity this week to bring hope and justice to someone in need, demonstrating the transformative power of Christ’s love in tangible ways.

PRAYER:

Heavenly Father, in the midst of turmoil, help us fix our eyes on Jesus, the source of our hope. May we trust in Your justice and find comfort in His gentle guidance. Empower us to bring about positive change in the world without compromising our faith. Amen.