“For waters shall break forth in the wilderness
and streams in the desert;
the burning sand shall become a pool
and the thirsty ground springs of water . . . 
A highway shall be there,
and it shall be called the Holy Way;
the unclean shall not travel on it,
but it shall be for God’s people.” Isaiah 35:6b-8

The ancient poets of Israel, would be surprised how centuries later we continue to look to their words, for inspiration and encouragement. In rich imagery and dreams of restoration, Isaiah points to the cedars of Lebanon and the rich forests of Carmel and Sharon, as examples of future plenty. Comparing that richness, to the desolation left after the fall of Jerusalem, Isaiah speaks God’s promise of restoration. A promise, which  becomes a deep and abiding hope.

“The wilderness and the dry land shall be glad;
the desert shall rejoice and blossom;
like the crocus it shall blossom abundantly
and rejoice with joy and shouting.
The glory of Lebanon shall be given to it,
the majesty of Carmel and Sharon.
They shall see the glory of the Lord,
the majesty of our God.” Isaiah 35:1-2

Whether the dry land one is experiencing is like the ruins in Gaza, or the personal ruins in one’s individual’s life, Isaiah’s words encourage us to press on, to believe life can get better. Stranded in a barren wilderness, hearts weary with heavy burdens,  there is reason to fear. How do we survive? What direction do we take? In our bewildering moments and uncertain of the path, we look for a way through the darkness.

God’s promises to be with us in our desert places, to be there when we find ourselves in a barren space. Matt Miofsky writes,* “When we falter is when God shows up. Moments when our strength runs out are moments when we more clearly sense God’s strength at work . . . we shouldn’t be afraid or embarrassed when we find ourselves in over our heads, unable to move forward, or not knowing what to do next. In moments of weakness is when the Spirit shows up and when God’s fingerprints on your life become evident. Remember this. That we live with a power that is not our own. That when we fall, God catches. When we get nervous, God stays steady. When we do not know the way, God provides clarity and direction.”

While we despair, God prepares  streams in the desert and springs of water, where we most need it.

Isaiah’s words continue to speak to us, giving us a message to trust in the one who leads us, to follow the way.

“Strengthen the weak hands
and make firm the feeble knees.
Say to those who are of a fearful heart,
“Be strong, do not fear!
Here is your God.” Isaiah 35:3-4

Prayer: Faithful God, When the darkness closes around us, and we can see no way forward, remind us that you are paving a way through the wilderness, and guiding us to a place of joy. Strengthen our weak hands and make firm our feeble knees.    Amen.

Additional resources for Advent through Christmastide, including a daily Advent calendar can be found here: Devotions for Advent to Epiphany   

*Miofsky, Matt. The Methodist Book of Daily Prayer, Deluxe Edition (p. 292). Abingdon Press. Kindle Edition.