Hope For All

Scripture:

Matthew 12:20-21
“A battered reed He will not break off,
And a smoldering wick He will not put out,
Until He leads justice to victory,
And in His name the Gentiles will hope.” (NASB)

Observation:

Here the apostle Matthew is quoting the words of God through the prophet Isaiah to demonstrate (contrary to the typical Jewish belief) that the Messiah would not arrive with political agendas, military campaigns, and with great fanfare, but with a gracious and gentle touch—giving hope to the entire known world. Shepherds used the reed to make their flutes, but once cracked or worn it became useless for making music. A smoldering wick is also deemed useless for it gives no light. These two examples represent people who were also deemed useless to the world. Our Savior, the Christ Jesus, came to restore and rekindle such people, not to break or quench and throw them away. We find in these verses words that speak of His tender compassion toward the lowliest of the lost. He did not come to gather the strong for a revolution, but to show mercy and grace to the weak and hopeless.

Application:

Simply knowing who our mighty and loving God is, can and will bring joy to anyone no matter who you are or what your circumstances may be. The coming of our Lord, Christ Jesus (Luke 2:11), to save the lost and hopeless and to redeem His people (Titus 2:11) gives us reason to rejoice and sing praises to His glorious name. When you know His Truth that the world hates and tries to hide in darkness, it is like a breath of fresh air or the coming of spring after a long and blistery winter. Receiving the gift of new life from the Savior of the world is the message of Christmas, my friends, and one we can celebrate with joy even when darkness and trouble are knocking at our door (1 Peter 1:6).

Prayer:

I ask You, Lord God, to continue touching my life in ways that You can only do. Thank You for the hope you bring to this world that is covered in darkness trying to hide Your Truth and rob us of the joy You bring. Help me, dear Lord, to shine with Your glory so that all who are lost will see Your magnificent Light and receive Your hope!