And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, those who are called according to his purpose. For those whom he foreknew he also predestined to be conformed to the image of his Son, in order that he might be the firstborn among many brothers. And those whom he predestined he also called, and those whom he called he also justified, and those whom he justified he also glorified. What then shall we say to these things? If God is for us, who can be against us? He who did not spare his own Son but gave him up for us all, how will he not also with him graciously give us all things? Rom. 8:28-32
Dear Lord Jesus—Immanuel, God with us and God so very much for us, we cannot read this favorite Scripture without thinking about Advent, and why you came and why you’re coming again. The hopes and hurts, fears and tears of all our years are met right here in this one passage. You’re all we need, and way more than we can imagine.
Jesus, it’s a source of immeasurable peace to know that you are presently at work in all things for our good, and your glory: In the obvious things and in the hard providences; in our laughter and in our losses; in the things we “get” and in the things which very much vex us; when we’re “feeling the love” and when life feels very lonely and unfair; when the gospel is our greatest reality, and when we’re tempted to say with John the Baptist, “Are you the Messiah, or should we be looking for another?” (Matt. 11:2-3)
But there is no other Messiah, Savior, or Lord but you, Jesus; and absolutely nothing will separate us from your love, protection, and care. For we’ve been called according to the Father’s purpose, which will never fail or falter. He set his affection on us before the world began, and it remains vibrant and unwavering; and he’ll continue to provide everything necessary for accomplishing his work in our lives, and in the entire creation. Joy to the world, and to us, indeed. So very Amen we pray, in your merciful and mighty name.
