From our Old Testament reading for today, from Isaiah: ‘In that day the branch of the Lord shall be beautiful and glorious, and the fruit of the land shall be the pride and glory of the survivors of Israel. And he who is left in Zion and remains in Jerusalem will be called holy, every one who has been recorded for life in Jerusalem …’

The Advent Season is particularly rich in Old Testament texts that are used in the liturgy, and today’s reading is no exception. The phrase ‘in that day’ tells us that it is the ‘end time’ that is under discussion here – another Advent theme.

And so, as we begin this season of grace, let us take time to be still, to listen to God through His Word, and through the events of our daily lives. May God bless you as you seek to put into practice what you learn in the stillness.