It Was For Us

"Concerning this salvation, the prophets, who spoke of the grace that was to come to you, searched intently and with the greatest care, trying to find out the time and circumstances to which the Spirit of Christ in them was pointing when he predicted the sufferings of the Messiah and the glories that would follow. It was revealed to them that they were not serving themselves but you, when they spoke of the things that have now been told you by those who have preached the gospel to you by the Holy Spirit sent from heaven. Even angels long to look into these things."

— 1 Peter 1:10-12

Gracious Lord Jesus, my friend and my King,

The prophets who long ago foretold of your coming, your suffering, and your glory, were not serving themselves but me! I am the beneficiary of their intent searching and careful listening to the Holy Spirit. They were uncertain as to the time and place you would appear, but they were certain you would come.

The Gospel message I have now heard, received, and believed, didn't begin when you were crucified. It didn't begin when you preached and ministered. I didn't begin when you were born. The Gospel began long before with Isaiah and Zechariah and Jonah and Jeremiah. It began with Ruth and Boaz and with Elijah and Elisha. It began with Moses. The Gospel message began in the Garden when God said to the serpent, "He will crush your head and you will strike His heal." The Gospel was God's plan all along! Angels in heaven have watched the Gospel story unfolding through the millennia. They long to see this story completed. I imagine angels leaning over the edge of Heaven, gazing at Earth, wondering what will happen next!

Gracious Lord Jesus, as the Gospel continues to go forth and more people hear it today, I thank You for the prophets of old who listened intently and searched carefully to know and understand what Your Spirit was saying and doing. May I have that same intent and care today. To listen, search, and understand what Your Spirit is saying and doing here and now.

— In Jesus' Name I pray, Amen!

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