Setting expectations for 2023

Day 24

Scripture

Isaiah 9:6-7

For to us a child is born,
    to us a son is given,
    and the government will be on his shoulders.
And he will be called
    Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God,
    Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.
Of the greatness of his government and peace
    there will be no end.
He will reign on David’s throne
    and over his kingdom,
establishing and upholding it
    with justice and righteousness
    from that time on and forever.
The zeal of the Lord Almighty
    will accomplish this.

Devotional

Talk about high expectations. Israel came to the Messiah with their expectations, and many of those expectations were understandable. “He will reign on David’s throne” and “The government will be on his shoulders.” This sounds like a governmental take over to me, which at the time of Jesus’ birth would have been welcomed by the Jewish people.

During the message this past Sunday, we talked about the conditions for the Jews at the time of Jesus’ arrival. They were ruled by King Herod, and experienced a great amount of persecution – the execution of their people as well as theft in the form of excessive taxation. 

As we know, Jesus made good on all of the prophecies that were given in the Old Testament. However, it wasn’t the way the Jewish people were expecting. 
Take some time to look back on the last year. In what ways were your expectations met, in what ways were they not met and in what ways were your expectations superseded? Sometimes it’s painful to look back and at other times looking back creates moments of gratitude. 

I have a hunch that Jesus has a lot of experience in navigating the expectations of people. As you bring these to Him, allow yourself to take a moment of pause to say what’s on your heart – even if it comes out ugly. 

Prayer

Lord, as we look back on this past year, it has been full of both joy and sorrow. Forgive us for coming into the year with expectations that were our own. Thank you for the way we saw you work in beautiful ways – for the friends, family, small kindnesses and miracles. Help us to navigate the emotions that come with unmet expectations. Thank you that you are the wonderful counselor, mighty God and everlasting Father. Amen.

Challenge

2022 is coming to an end. Reflect back on this time last year. What were your expectations? Did this year turn out exactly how you expected?