Read: Isaiah 11:1-9
The earth shall be full of the knowledge of the Lord as the waters cover the sea. (v. 9)
The year 2020 has been an incredible year. The COVID-19 pandemic altered our lives, and we have been gripped with anxiety, fear, grief, and several deep losses. I wish we could start the year over again and write a new script for it.
Fortunately, no matter how difficult our lives are, we know how the story ends. Jesus reigns with wisdom, understanding, and holy knowledge. He is righteous and faithful, remembers the poor, and lifts up the meek. When Jesus returns, he will establish a new heaven and a new earth, and he will dwell with us. On that day, the whole earth will be filled with God’s all-encompassing peace—his shalom. There will be no more tears or sadness. There will be no more sickness or death. Destruction, enmity, and hatred shall be no more. Those who belong to the Lord will live in peace, in full knowledge of the Lord.
No matter how difficult this year has been, let us hold fast to the deep and unfailing love of God, who gave his Son for us, so that whosoever believes in him will not perish but dwell with God in eternity. This is the good news. In Christ, we have received the promise of eternal life with God.
After the year that we had in 2020, isn’t that worth waiting for? —Felix Theonugraha
As you pray, ask God to help you keep your eyes fixed on him, the author and perfecter of our faith.
About the Author
Dr. Felix Theonugraha is the President of Western Theological Seminary and Professor of Educational Leadership. Dr. Theonugraha draws upon the call of Jesus to shepherd and serve the institution to continue its mission, participating in God’s ongoing redemptive work in the world.
