Each week as we light the candles on the Advent wreath we focus on one word. This Sunday it is love. In a recent devotion I was reading focusing on Advent and love, this scripture passage was included. This is not a passage that I read very often.

And I'm going to set aside a place for my people Israel and plant them there so they'll have their own home and not be knocked around anymore. Nor will evil men afflict you as they always have, even during the days I set judges over my people Israel. Finally, I'm going to give you peace from all your enemies. Furthermore, God has this message for you: God himself will build you a house! Your family and our kingdom are permanently secured. I'm keeping my eye on them! And your royal throne will always be there, rock solid. (2 Samuel 7:10-11, 16)

We like having our own space. A place that is ours, where we feel safe. One of the ways that God shows love to the people of Israel is through giving them this safe place all their own. It's been rough for them, so God declares that the people get their own space where they will be left alone, where they can rest. Sometimes, we are the ones that get a safe place, and sometimes, we are the ones that make sure that somebody else has a safe place.

What are some of the ways that you experience God's love for you? Go into this week knowing that you are loved by God. You always have been. You always will be. How can you go and share that love with the whole world?

Prayer for Today  

God, thank you for safe places and for those who help make them safe for me. Show me how to do that for someone else so that they may feel your safe presence. Amen.