Giving to God the First

We start this week exploring the scriptures associated with Thanksgiving Day in the U.S. and then turn toward the beginning of Advent and the coming arrival of the Christ child. Isaiah looks forward to a future day when peace will reign in Jerusalem. All nations will come to hear the wisdom of the Lord. The psalmist rejoices in going up to Jerusalem in his own day. Jerusalem is a center of peace and a place for righteous judgment among the nations. Both readings inform Jewish expectations of a bright future with the arrival of the Messiah. Paul tells the Romans that part of receiving the reality of the Messiah is self-preparation. We should put aside immoral living and put on the Lord Jesus Christ. Matthew looks forward to the future return of the Son of God, which will happen at an unexpected time.

• Read Isaiah 2:1-5. How do you look to the Bible’s stories, prayer, and the Holy Spirit to help you work toward God’s reign?
• Read Psalm 122. What does it mean for you to pray for peace?
• Read Romans 13:11-14. How do you stay awake to salvation’s nearness?
• Read Matthew 24:36-44. Who in your life lives as though they expect Christ’s imminent return? What does it look like to be ready to meet Christ?