Advent names the deep promise God keeps. In Joyce Rupp’s “Promised One,” we meet the Christ who steps into our tangled world with compassion, healing and forgiveness, ushering in hope and love beyond our expectations. And still our hearts yearn, because this promise is not just a memory, it is a longing that leads us onward.
On this “Hope on the Path to the Manger” journey, take a prayer pause today. Sit with that yearning. Let it become a doorway to trust, compassion and renewed hope as we walk toward the One who comes for us.
Promised One
Reaching through the ages with compassion,
A pledge to send humankind a beloved.
This One would enter the entangled fray
And touch hearts anxious for a welcome,
Heal brokenness and forgive the worst sin.
Then you came forth as this Promised One,
Entered life’s harsh arena and heralded hope,
Brought love beyond anyone’s expectation
And offered sacred teachings to last a lifetime.
Why, then are our hearts still yearning?
Joyce Rupp, Fragments of your Ancient Name, December 8
