*Post updated September 2022
Join us on the Revelation Wellness Blog this Advent for an interactive Rev-style Advent Devotional. You’re invited to read Scripture aloud, reflect and journal on the selected passage, move your body in joy, and pray in common prayer. Let God’s Word sink deep into your heart, body, and spirit as we anticipate the birth of our Jesus!
Opening Verse
“ I was glad when they said to me, ‘Let us go to the house of the Lord.’ Now our feet are standing within your gates, O Jerusalem.” (Psalm 22:1-2)
Holy Reading, Isaiah 2:1-5
The word that Isaiah son of Amoz saw concerning Judah and Jerusalem.
In days to come the mountain of the Lord’s house shall be established as the highest of the mountains, and shall be raised above the hills; all the nations shall stream to it.
Many peoples shall come and say, ‘Come, let us go up to the mountain of the Lord,
to the house of the God of Jacob; that he may teach us his ways and that we may walk in his paths.’
For out of Zion shall go forth instruction, and the word of the Lord from Jerusalem.
He shall judge between the nations, and shall arbitrate for many peoples;
they shall beat their swords into ploughshares, and their spears into pruning-hooks;
nation shall not lift up sword against nation, neither shall they learn war any more.
O house of Jacob, come, let us walk in the light of the Lord!
Reflection
HAPPY NEW YEAR! As Christians, we tell time differently. Our lives are a response and testament to Jesus’ birth, life, death, and resurrection; we believe these are the true turning points of history and we live in anticipation of His return.
So, the Christian year begins with the birth of King Jesus. This Advent, this arrival of King Jesus as a babe born to a virgin is the answer to God’s promise in Genesis 3. After Adam and Eve chose to do what was wise in their own eyes rather than follow God’s wisdom, God exiled them from the garden. His promise is nestled into the curse He gives to the serpent, “And I will put enmity between you and the woman, and between your offspring and hers; he will crush your head, and you will strike his heel” (Genesis 3:15).
We are promised that a son of man WILL crush the root of death and evil. A son of man WILL restore all of humanity and creation to God, the Father. That son of man is Jesus. He is greater than Abraham, greater than Moses, greater than Elijah, and greater than David. He is God Himself.
But who is Jesus? And what has He come to do?
Let these questions be an invitation to come to the mountain of the Lord and learn of His ways this Advent season. Letting the Scriptures speak for themselves, we’ll receive a vision of our Savior and the new heavens and new earth.
Let’s start with Isaiah 2:1-5. Slowly read this passage again and take note of God’s actions and humanity’s actions. Then, answer the questions below.
Journaling Questions
1. How will you set aside this season to anticipate the birth of Jesus?
2. What do you notice about this vision of God and humanity in Isaiah?
3. How does this passage shape your hope in Jesus?
Move In Joy
HEATHER G’S CHOREOGRAPHED STRENGTH – “HE WILL USE IT”
This workout will flip-flop you back and forth between cardio and resistance training. This workout will certainly keep your body guessing. Muscle confusion? No big deal. God is never confused about us. Get comfortable being uncomfortable in this workout.
Equipment Needed: Hand weights and yoga mat
Closing Prayer
Thank you, Father, for not giving up on us.
Though we are feeble and easily stray, you do not forsake us, and instead, you give us a vision of shalom and flourishing in the new heavens and new earth. Glory to your name, O God! Hallowed be your Name, King Jesus!
Cleanse me of all unrighteousness and help me participate in your work of shalom; in the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, Amen!
Advent Resources:
If this is your first experience celebrating Advent, check out these resources for more information and Advent traditions for the young and old!
– Journey to the Manger Faith and Fitness Challenge
– The Jesse Tree for families with young children- Jesus Storybook Bible Advent
– Unwrapping the Greatest Gift by Ann Voskamp
– Try RevWell TV for new body and soul workouts added every month!
Gabrielle Wenos is a Content Manager at Revelation Wellness. She graduated from Platoon 21 and lives in Wyoming with her husband and son. Read more of her work on her blog, All These Things Blog.
Everything You Need
What if the weeks before Christmas were marked by rhythms of reflection, peace, and preparation? What if Christmas and the twelve days that followed were marked with unhurried celebration and fellowship?
We don’t want you to add more to your hectic schedule.
But, after reading through these devotionals, resources, and a whole lot of God’s Word, you may just be compelled to adopt new rhythms and priorities during these weeks of joy.
9 Responses
Thank you for inviting me
We’re so glad you’re here, Susan!
@gabby WEnOs…..blessings to your new season and your move to wyoming. Know your revelation family is praying for safe tRavels. Keep us updated on your adventures.
Thank you, Ann. That’s so kind of you!
Gabrielle was the first One i met at the airport when trting to find out where to go. Her smile was radiant and she was Bubbling over with joy whenever i saw her at retreat. Blessings to you, & your husband on your neW journey.
#platoon22
Thank you, Jane! Blessings to you and your family!