Today’s Advent reading is Psalm 16:0-11. (Click the link to open the passage in a new window).
In Acts 2:22-31, Peter teaches that Psalm 16 is about Christ’s resurrection!
What David anticipated, Peter lived. What David prophesied, Peter witnessed. What David hoped for, Peter saw fulfilled.
And yet, in his waiting, David had a fullness of joy in God.
His confident faith, and ongoing relationship with the Lord, has developed a wellspring of joy.
Why?
David does not trust God in isolation. He knows a community of faith (v. 3).
David need not envy the wicked. He knows their sorrows will multiply (v. 4).
David does not hold onto anxiety about the future. That is in God’s hands (v. 5).
David can contemplate his own death without fear. He knows God will show him the path of life (v. 11).
If “God” is just a belief, then we’re no better off than those who speak positive mantras to the mirror.
But if we really do know the living Creator and Ruler and Savior, and our hearts know that his love for us is good, powerful, and forever, then we will be a joyful people.
By the Spirit, David had a confident hope that Jesus would arrive. We have the Spirit too—and we also see the reality of the resurrection.
Are you waiting for joy? Are you struggling in faith? As one man cried out to Jesus, " I do believe, but help me overcome my unbelief!"
Personal Reflection and Community Discussion Questions:
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What tempts you to despair?
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What can death take from you?
You are encouraged to share other reflections on these passages.
You can find this week’s Advent 2021 readings here: