December 15 — Isaiah 35:5–10

Then the eyes of the blind will be opened

  and the ears of the deaf unstopped.

Then the lame will leap like a deer

  and the mute tongue will shout for joy.

For waters will gush forth in the wilderness,

  and streams in the desert.

The parched ground will become a pool,

  the thirsty land springs of water.

In the haunt where jackals once lay,

  there will be grass and reeds and papyrus.

And there will be a highway

  called the Way of Holiness.

The unclean will not travel it—

  only those who walk in the Way—

  and fools will not stray onto it.

No lion will be there,

  and no vicious beast will go up on it.

Such will not be found there,

  but the redeemed will walk upon it.

So the redeemed of the LORD will return

  and enter Zion with singing,

  crowned with everlasting joy.

Gladness and joy will overtake them,

  and sorrow and sighing will flee.

— Isaiah 35:5-10

Isaiah’s vision continues with even greater beauty and hope. What began as blossoms in the wilderness becomes a scene of full restoration: sight for the blind, hearing for the deaf, strength for the lame, and joyful praise for those who could not speak. God’s healing does not merely improve life—it transforms it. Advent invites us to trust that the restoration God brings through Christ reaches into every form of brokenness—physical, emotional, spiritual, and relational. The miracles that Jesus performed during His earthly ministry are glimpses of this promised future, signs that God’s kingdom is drawing near.

Isaiah also describes a “Way of Holiness”—a safe, protected path where God’s redeemed people walk with joy. This highway is not built by human hands; it is created by God, shaped by His righteousness and His redeeming work. Advent reminds us that Jesus Himself is this Way. Through Him, the lost find direction, the wounded find safety, and the weary find strength to keep going. The end of this road is joy—everlasting, overflowing, unshakeable joy that wipes away sorrow and fills the heart with singing. Advent directs our gaze toward that promised future even as we walk the present journey with hope.

As you meditate on this passage, reflect on these questions: Where do you long for God’s healing touch—whether in your body, your spirit, or your relationships? How does the image of “streams in the desert” speak to your current season? What does it mean for you to walk on the “Way of Holiness,” not by your perfection but by God’s grace? And how does the promise of everlasting joy shape your perspective on your present circumstances?

For today’s practice, take a moment to stand—or simply imagine standing—on a straight, clear path stretching before you. Picture it as God’s “Way of Holiness,” a path He has prepared for you. Pray the words, “Lord, lead me in Your way.” Then choose one small action today that aligns with God’s path—an act of kindness, a moment of prayer, a step of obedience, or a decision to let go of something that draws you away from Him. Let each step remind you that God is guiding you toward joy.

Heavenly Father, 

Thank You for the promise of restoration, healing, and joy. Lead me in Your Way and help me trust that You are guiding my steps even when the path feels uncertain. Fill my heart with the hope of everlasting joy, and let sorrow and sighing flee in the light of Your presence. 

In the name of Jesus I pray. Amen.

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