When Loli and I were in seminary, we had the opportunity to go to Central America on a travel study seminar. This particular nativity came from a market in Guatemala. I love the doors on the manger, unique design, and the bright colors used in the paints.

Isaiah 4:2-6

On that day the branch of the Lord shall be beautiful and glorious, and the fruit of the land shall be the pride and glory of the survivors of Israel. Whoever is left in Zion and remains in Jerusalem will be called holy, everyone who has been recorded for life in Jerusalem, once the Lord has washed away the filth of the daughters of Zion and cleansed the bloodstains of Jerusalem from its midst by a spirit of judgment and by a spirit of burning. Then the Lord will create over the whole site of Mount Zion and over its places of assembly a cloud by day and smoke and the shining of a flaming fire by night. Indeed over all the glory there will be a canopy. It will serve as a pavilion, a shade by day from the heat, and a refuge and a shelter from the storm and rain.

Prayer

Merciful God, we look forward to the day of Your coming. We know that You have a glorious future in store for us. Thank You for the gift of Your promises. Strengthen us in this time to live a life of expectant waiting and faithful hope. Amen.