We feel under assault on a whole range of social issues from homosexuality to abortion. We feel beleaguered by hostile letters to newspaper editors. We see expressions of broken sexuality all around us, and feel isolated. With the breakdown in morality all around, we feel under pressure from many points, and need of the comfort and the strength of God. A lot of folks feel that especially at this time of year.
Advent is a hard time for a lot of people, because of the intense expectations of the season.
It's hard if you lost a loved one, and have to face a Christmas that will look much different without them. It's a time when we need comfort. Isaiah prophesied to Israel in exile in Babylon, mourning the loss of temple and homeland. They were a demoralized people, profoundly discouraged, and they needed more than cheap promises or wishful thinking. They needed a hope that was real, comfort that was genuine, a fresh encounter with the Living God.