Read:
Psalm 126
Habakkuk 3:2-6
Philippians 3:12-16
Reflect:
“...the watercourses of the Negev”
The Negev is a rocky desert that covers more than half of Israel. It is divided into areas based upon the amount of rainfall it averages per year. The northern, Mediterranean portion gets perhaps 12 inches of rain and the driest area maybe two. Dallas, TX gets around three times that amount by comparison. It isn’t hard to imagine how welcome the rainy season is. But as the rains start flowing down from more mountainous regions, the riverbed begins to fill. This is the picture of hopefulness in Psalm 126.
Psalm 126
Habakkuk 3:2-6
Philippians 3:12-16
Reflect:
“...the watercourses of the Negev”
The Negev is a rocky desert that covers more than half of Israel. It is divided into areas based upon the amount of rainfall it averages per year. The northern, Mediterranean portion gets perhaps 12 inches of rain and the driest area maybe two. Dallas, TX gets around three times that amount by comparison. It isn’t hard to imagine how welcome the rainy season is. But as the rains start flowing down from more mountainous regions, the riverbed begins to fill. This is the picture of hopefulness in Psalm 126.
The Psalmist entreats God to restore Israel’s fortunes like the watercourses in the Negev. Those waters assuredly return every year at the beginning of the winter months. It is as predictable as the flooding of the Nile. Something you can count on like you can count on God to meet you in your prayers and accomplish good things for your life.
In God’s economy, we should always count the cost along with the blessings. The implications of the waters rushing suddenly into the riverbed can have consequences we were NOT counting on like the poor little flower blooming in a crack of the dry riverbed. But that is the beauty of this season of Advent. We can be participants in the arrival rather than mere observers. Let’s not miss all the wonder when the waiting is concluded. So, along with being ready with all the packages tied up with ribbons, let’s think about all the blessings and ways to turn the costs into a treasure.
Like Santa’s list, perhaps make your own. Get your family involved too around the fire with eggnog or hot spiced cider, cookies and pie.
What will the arrival of Jesus at Christmas truly mean for me and my family?
The blessing
1. Learn compassion for others
2.
3.
etc.
The cost
1. Greet someone who looks lonely
2.
3.
etc.
The hidden treasure
1. Make a new friend and learn their story
2.
3.
etc.
Joan Copeland
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