Sketchy Advent Week 4: Love

Luke 1:39-55

“In those days Mary arose and went with haste into the hill country, to a town in Judah, and she entered the house of Zechariah and greeted Elizabeth. ... And Mary said,

‘My soul magnifies the Lord, and my spirit rejoices in God my Savior, for he has looked on the humble estate of his servant. For behold, from now on all generations will call me blessed; for he who is mighty has done great things for me, and holy is his name.’”

Luke 1:39-55 ESV

There’s this word in Hebrew “Hesed”. It gets translated into a few different words in English: compassion, mercy, grace, and love. Like most translations, nothing really captures it fully, but they all hint at parts of it.

It’s an important word in the Bible because it reflects God’s consistent actions towards his people despite their situations and failings.

It’s that persistent love that became a person in Jesus.

And now, Mary meets her cousin who recognises this incredible event in her midst. The long-awaited Messiah who would bring God’s people back to him was coming.

Mary’s response is to sing a song. To reflect back the love of God to him. To acknowledge all he is doing in and through her. And in accepting her calling despite the costs: of being shunned; of the pain of childbirth; of the cost of parenting. She shows a loving, faithful response too.

Application: Expressing Love Actively

Consider how you can show active love this week, particularly in the lead-up to Christmas. It might be through words of encouragement, acts of service, or taking time to really listen to someone who needs it.

And take a moment to reflect back God’s love to him in gratitude for his love, his son, and his sacrifice.

Prayer:

(Suggestion: Light the fourth Advent candle for love as you pray.)

Loving God, as you gave your life for us help us to respond in sacrificial love. To joyfully lay down our ambitions to your call; to appreciate your grace as the gift it is and to respond in praise and sharing that love with those around us. Let our lives be loving gifts back to you. Amen.

Wishing you a week filled with heartfelt connections and divine love, as we prepare to light the Christ Candle on Christmas.

With love in Christ,

Chris