The Wisdom of Waiting
Evening Peace for the Season of Advent
Tonight’s Verse
To what then shall I compare the people of this generation, and what are they like? They are like children sitting in the marketplace and calling to one another, ‘We played the flute for you, and you did not dance; we sang a dirge, and you did not weep.’
Luke 7:31-32
Reflection
In Luke 7:28-35, Jesus reflects on the responses to John the Baptist and himself, revealing the tension between expectation and recognition. John came with the call to repentance, and Jesus came with the joy of salvation, yet many dismissed both. Their hearts were preoccupied, unable to discern the work of God unfolding before them. In Advent, this passage reminds us to examine our own expectations and attitudes as we wait for Christ’s coming. Are we distracted by the noise of the world, or are we attuned to the still, small voice of his presence?
Advent invites us into a posture of quiet anticipation. Just as John prepared the way for Jesus, this season prepares our hearts to see him afresh. The wisdom of God often defies human expectations - his ways are not ours (Isaiah 55:8-9). To truly celebrate his coming, we must set aside preconceived notions and open our hearts to the surprising, transformative work of Christ.
Tonight, as you prepare for rest, reflect on the ways you might miss God’s work in your life. What expectations or distractions keep you from recognizing his presence? Let this Advent season be a time of stillness and renewed vision, where the wisdom of God becomes your guide. Trust that even in unexpected ways, he is faithful and near, inviting you to receive his joy and peace.
Prayer
Lord Jesus, in this season of waiting, I confess that I sometimes miss the ways you’re working in my life. Help me to set aside distractions and preconceived notions, and open my heart to your presence. Give me the wisdom to recognize your hand, even when it defies my expectations. As I rest tonight, may your peace settle over me, and may I wake with a heart attuned to your voice and will. In your name I pray. Amen.
Hymn Verse:
“O holy Child of Bethlehem,
Descend to us, we pray;
Cast out our sin and enter in,
Be born in us today.”
(O Little Town of Bethlehem, Phillips Brooks, 1868)
This Evening Peace devotional reminds us to embrace the wisdom of waiting during Advent. By letting go of distractions and embracing the unexpected ways of God, we prepare our hearts to fully celebrate Christ’s coming. Rest tonight in the assurance that his wisdom is leading you toward his joy and peace.