The First 15

Thursday December 1, 2022

by Thomas Mitchell

Today is Thursday, December 1 and we are continuing our journey through the Advent season together.

Scripture Reading

So the Lord said, “I will wipe from the face of the earth the human race I have created—and with them the animals, the birds and the creatures that move along the ground—for I regret that I have made them.” But Noah found favor in the eyes of the Lord. Genesis 6:7-8

Reflection

Noah and his family faced a remarkably difficult task. He had received a word from God of a coming flood and was told to construct an ark which would ensure the rescue of Noah’s family and two of every living creature. God was inviting the establishment of a covenant with Noah. Noah chose faithfulness. We read today that “Noah found favor in the eyes of the Lord.” This favor was not dependent upon Noah’s skill but simply upon his willingness and obedience. It was through this obedience that God’s will was accomplished.

What do Jesus and Noah have in common?

This Advent, we remember that Jesus was born not to do his own will. We read Jesus’ words in John 6:38: “I have come down from heaven not to do my will but to do the will of him who sent me.” And near the end of his life we find these words of prayer from Jesus: “Father, if you are willing, take this cup from me; yet not my will, but yours be done” (Luke 22:42).

In Noah, we see obedience to God displayed. In Mary and Joseph, we see obedience to God displayed. In Jesus, we see the fullness of obedience displayed as God’s redemptive work is fulfilled. Each day, we are invited to choose obedience ourselves–and by the power of the Spirit, we can.

Ask
When were you faced with a choice between obedience and disobedience this past year? How do the examples of Noah, Mary, Joseph, and Jesus encourage obedience in your life? Is there a situation in your life currently in which you are seeking God’s will? How will you respond?

Closing Prayer

Father God, thank you for these stories of obedience of your people. It is amazing to think about the circumstances in which Noah, Mary, Joseph, and Jesus found themselves in. I confess that I focus too much on my own circumstances, desires, and will. I humbly ask today, what is your will? How are you calling me to obedience each day? Enable me to obedience by the power of Your Word and Your Spirit. Amen.

Songs of the Season

Listen and sing along with us to songs that will shape our Advent season. Today we will sing “Wesley Prayer (Come Like a Fire)” which you can find here.

First 15 through the season of Advent is adapted from Roots: Advent and the Family Story of Jesus available through Seedbed. If you or your small group are interested in using this resource for your Advent study, you can find more information here or send an email to discipleship@fmcm.org.

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