The Stem Of Jesse
There shall come forth a Rod from the stem of Jesse,
And a Branch shall grow out of his roots.
Isaiah 11:1
During Advent, Christians look forward to the birth of the Saviour. While Christmas joy rightly peaks at the birth of the Lord Jesus, sometimes we forget the Old Testament prophecies and stories pointing to that moment at the manger in Bethlehem.
In the chapter leading up to our reading for today, Isaiah describes God’s wrath against human rebellion and sin. The prophet declares that it will be like God taking an axe to the arrogance of human evil, cutting a forlorn scene like a hillside stripped bare of trees, leaving nothing but wretched stumps.
But wait, says, Isaiah: “A shoot will come forth from the stem [or stump] of Jesse; And a Branch shall grow out of his roots.” There is hope for God’s people! God plans to raise up a Saviour, both tender and powerful, a promise not only to Israel but to all nations. Isaiah declares, “In that day the Root of Jesse will stand as a banner for the peoples” (v 12).
This month, Christians will trace many of the passages in Scripture that show the promises of the Messiah coming. But notice the capital 'B' in 'Branch' that will grow out of Jesse's stem; capital 'B' because that is, Jesus, the Christ. As we recount the great, sweeping story of God’s faithfulness, may we each abound in hope, joy, and faith in God’s promises of full life in Christ.
Bible Reading
Isaiah 11:1-10.
Prayer
God of all hope, fill me this Christmastime with joy and peace as I remember the birth of our Saviour, Jesus Christ, in whose name I pray. Amen.
Comments