Our scripture readings for this week include: 2 Samuel 7:1–11, 16; Psalm 89:1–5, 19–29; Romans 16:25–27; and Luke 1:26–38. My hope is that these short reviews of each passage will work like an Advent devotional this year. Also when these passages are read on Sunday we will all have a better understanding of the text and what praising God should look and sound like because of them.

Readings for the Fourth Week of Advent

Now to him who is able to strengthen you according to my gospel and the preaching of Jesus Christ, according to the revelation of the mystery that was kept secret for long ages but has now been disclosed and through the prophetic writings has been made known to all nations, according to the command of the eternal God, to bring about the obedience of faith—to the only wise God be glory forevermore through Jesus Christ! Amen.

(Romans 16:25–27)

God has always had a plan and that plan has always included every kind of people. That plan has also included giving the gift of faith so that we are able to obediently respond to call of Jesus on our lives.

This little doxology, a short pattern of praise, is a reflection upon everything that Paul teaches us in Romans. Everything that has happened and every thing that will happen. He has been faithful in the past and he will be faithful to his promises in the future. He does not just save you from Satan, Sin, Death, and Hell but he promises to glorify you. At his second Advent he will make you and this world new. All will be completed. Obedience to the call will be completed. Your sanctification will be completed.

You and all things will be full and complete. And this is what we look forward during Advent. The completion of promises.