Church ZOOM Call
Overview
On 3rd Advent we move on from repentance to restoration asking God to rebuild, renew, and restore all that has been lost.
Hearing prophetic promises from Isaiah that were fulfilled in Jesus Christ is a way that we can find our feet again on the road to Christmas.
Justice is at the heart of restoration, and Christ has both walked and shown us the self-sacrificial path that leads to restorative justice.
Scripture Passages:
The Spirit of the Sovereign Lord is on me, because the Lord has anointed me to proclaim good news to the poor.
He has sent me to bind up the brokenhearted,
to proclaim freedom for the captives and release from darkness for the prisoners,
to proclaim the year of the Lord’s favor and the day of vengeance of our God,
to comfort all who mourn,
and provide for those who grieve in Zion—
to bestow on them a crown of beauty instead of ashes,
the oil of joy instead of mourning,
and a garment of praise instead of a spirit of despair.
They will be called oaks of righteousness,
a planting of the Lord for the display of his splendor.
They will rebuild the ancient ruins and restore the places long devastated;
they will renew the ruined cities
-Isaiah 61:1-4When the Lord restored the fortunes of Zion,
we were like those who dreamed.
Our mouths were filled with laughter,
our tongues with songs of joy.
Then it was said among the nations,
“The Lord has done great things for them.”
The Lord has done great things for us,
and we are filled with joy.
Restore our fortunes, Lord,
like streams in the Negev.
Those who sow with tears
will reap with songs of joy.
Those who go out weeping,
carrying seed to sow,
will return with songs of joy,
carrying sheaves with them.
-Psalm 126
Discussion/Reflection Questions
1. In his message Pastor Steve said that restoration is about justice. Do you agree? If so, how might this idea work its way out in daily life, how does justice bring about restoration?
2. Micah says that God requires that we, "...do justice, love mercy, and walk humbly. Which justice cause(s) do I support, to whom can I show mercy that I haven’t yet, and how am I yet proud in my own estimation?
3. What needs restoration for you this Christmas? Take a moment and offer that request to the God who restores.
