Stumps and branches

"Out of the stump of David's family will grow a shoot - yes, a new Branch bearing fruit from the old root" (Isaiah 11:1). What hope in this promise of the Saviour!

I too am a lifeless stump, longing for a tender shoot of hope. I wait for love, I yearn for companionship. But God calls me to notice new life in another area - He points to the work His Spirit is doing in my heart to enable me to see the love He has for me, the companionship He provides, the joy and satisfaction only He can give.

As I sit by my newly decorated Christmas tree and listen to Advent music centuries old, I wish I could share these beautiful moments with a kindred spirit. And then my heart whispers, "You are not alone. Immanuel!" Words of deep consolation - God with me!