And we know that for those who love God all things work together for good, for 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 (NIV)
Lord Jesus—Immanuel, God very with us, and God so very much for us, I 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 in this passage. You are all we need, and way beyond all we can imagine.
Jesus, the peace we get from knowing you are presently at work in all things for your glory and for our good—in the obvious and when we’re oblivious; in our laughter and in our losses; in the things we “get,” and in the things which vex us; when we’re “feeling the love,” and when we’re feeling very lonely; 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?”—The peace you give us is heart-centering and soul-settling.
There is no other Messiah, Savior, or Lord but you, Jesus; and absolutely nothing will separate us from your love, for we’ve been called according to the Father’s purpose—which will never fail or falter. He “foreknew” us and set his affection upon us before the world began; and he will continue to provide everything necessary to complete the work of the gospel 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.
