Everyone will sit under their own vine and under their own fig tree

Good Thursday morning, my friends.

This morning I read Micah 4:1-5:

In the last days

   the mountain of the LORD's temple will be established 

   as the highest of the mountains; 

   it will be exalted above the hills, 

   and peoples will stream to it.

Many nations will come and say,

   "Come, let us go up to the mountain of the LORD, 

   to the temple of the God of Jacob. 

He will teach us his ways, 

   so that we may walk in his paths." 

The law will go out from Zion, 

   the word of the LORD from Jerusalem. 

e will judge between many peoples 

   and will settle disputes for strong nations far and wide. 

They will beat their swords into plowshares 

   and their spears into pruning hooks. 

Nation will not take up sword against nation, 

   nor will they train for war anymore. 

Everyone will sit under their own vine 

   and under their own fig tree, 

and no one will make them afraid, 

   for the LORD Almighty has spoken. 

All the nations may walk 

   in the name of their gods, 

but we will walk in the name of the LORD 

   our God for ever and ever.

There is a great deal of uncertainty in the world today.  Personally, I feel we may be on our way to a worldwide financial crisis that will make the recent recession look like a walk in the park.  I know that sounds pessimistic, and if it weren't for my faith, my trust in God, I would be (more) anxious about the future.  But, as the passage above says clearly, the LORD Almighty has spoken! Everyone will sit under their own vine and under their own fig tree (mmmmmm date squares ....), and NO ONE will make them afraid.  

That is the hope that Jesus brings to this fearful, challenging world.  When my anxiety level about the future starts to rise, I remember the promises of God, especially this one: For I know the plans I have for you," declares the LORD, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.  (Jeremiah 29:11)

Grace and peace be yours in abundance,

Bruce

God of comfort, these times seem so uncertain, so scary.  

The world seems darker than it has in the past and I am less sure of myself.  

Maybe that's a good thing; maybe now I am turning to you with a realization that I need you so much more and that my life is not in my own control.  

Let me not forget all of those around the world who are frightened at this moment.  

Help those who are victims of terrorism and war.  

Be with those who have lost so much in the past year.  

Hold us all in your loving arms and let us be comforted by the strength and peace you want to much to offer us through the birth of your son, Jesus.  

Thank you for the many gifts you offer us.

(http://onlineministries.creighton.edu/CollaborativeMinistry/Advent/advent-prayers.html)

Bruce MacPherson macpherson@celtic.ca / Blog: The Celtic Christian / Home: 613.489.4174 Cell: 613.720.0821 You are receiving this email because you have requested it or I felt you would be interested in this material. If you would like to be removed from this email list, please do not hesitate to contact me at the above email address. Likewise, if you know of someone else who you believe would appreciate receiving these messages, please let me know.