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Welcome to #ccdaAdvent.
In the midst of darkness, oppression, and marginalization, Christ entered the scene of the first Advent and paved the way for our communal wellbeing. This Advent season, we invite you to consider the implications of Christ’s coming for our communities. What lessons may we draw from their context?
This year, we are excited to partner with churches participating in CCDA’s Flourishing Congregations Initiative. Each devotional will include a reflection, breath prayer, art, and worship reflecting on what Shalom is in the midst of difficulty, darkness, and crisis.
We pray that the reflections and prayers within these Advent devotionals bring renewed inspiration, anticipation, and hope in the Kingdom of God that has come and is to come. Amen.
Devotional by: Amparo Rincon
This is the final week of Advent, and while the Christmas lights shine brighter, sometimes, deep down, we feel our own inner light is quite dim. Have you ever felt that, even during this season, your life, or your heart is filled with confusion? Perhaps it’s a shattered relationship, failing health, or simply a deep weariness in your soul.
Advent is that time of active waiting and firm hope for the coming of Jesus. And as we approach the manger, Psalm 80 gives us the perfect language to express our pain.
Time and again, God’s people cried out: “Restore us, O God; make your face shine upon us, that we may be saved” (vv. 3, 7, 19). This is an honest cry. It is a pleading prayer that recognizes that only in God’s presence will we find the authentic restoration we need.
Our Shepherd is Not Indifferent (vv. 1-3)
Imagine a shepherd. He is not a distant boss; he is someone who knows the name of every sheep. The Psalmist addresses God as the Shepherd of Israel, the One enthroned in glory, yes, but who also leans down to hear our cry!
When life breaks us, we are not calling out to a distant being. We are asking a Father who is already near, waiting for us to lift our gaze to Him. Our restoration begins when we cry out to Him with all our hearts and ask Him: “Make your face shine upon us.” In His presence, we find true peace!
We Are Not the Only Ones Waiting (vv. 4-7)
Psalm 80 permits us to be honest with God about our pain. The people of Israel felt immersed in tears and were a source of ridicule. How often do we think that God is delaying or that the trial will never end? It is during that waiting time that we can lose faith.
But the psalm challenges us to keep crying out, “Restore us, O God of hosts.” The good news of Advent is that restoration is not a human strategy we must execute in our strength. It is the divine power that appears in our darkness, in our pain, and lifts us up, regardless of what our sorrow is.
The Vineyard: Returning to the Source (vv. 8-16)
The analogy of the vineyard is very moving. God brought His people out of Egypt as if they were a precious vine, and He planted it to flourish. But when the vine tried to live disconnected from its owner, it was destroyed.
This can be our story. When we disconnect from God, we become vulnerable and barren. But Advent reminds us that our life and purpose depend on His protection and care. If we turn back and connect with Him, the vineyard, even if withered, can flourish again!
Jesus is the Definitive Answer (vv. 17-19)
The Psalmist asked God to strengthen the “son of man” at His right hand. For them, perhaps it was the king. For us, it is a clear prophecy of Christ, the true Son of Man.
Jesus said, “I am the true vine” (John 15:1). He is the complete and permanent answer to that cry of “Restore us, O God.” He came to give us life, and life in abundance, and in Him we can experience the actual fruit: joy, peace, and his glorious restoration. In the manger, we find the final answer to humanity’s cry: His Son.
Lord, just as the Psalmist cried out for restoration, today I, too, lift my voice to You. I am weary,
I am broken, but I trust in You. Make Your face shine upon my life, my family, and our
community. You are our Shepherd and Savior. Establish my life in Christ, the true vine, and help
me to remain in You to bear the fruit of Your peace. Amen.
About Amparo Rincon
Amparo Rincon, along with her husband Rev. Carlos Rincon, started the non-profit in 2015. She has been a pastor in the community for 35 years. She has a passion for children and women and has led many programs that serve the needs of both groups. She used to be a director at a Day Care Center, and has her degree in Child Development.
Shalom in Darkness
This year, we are excited to partner with churches participating in CCDA’s Flourishing Congregations Initiative.
Each devotional includes a reflection, breath prayer, art, and worship reflecting on what Shalom is in the midst of difficulty, darkness, and crisis.
Click here to download the Advent devotional.
