103 First Tuesday of Advent: Noah
Genesis 7:1 (NIV)
"The Lord then said to Noah, 'Go into the ark, you and your whole family, because I have found you righteous in this generation.'"
On the first Tuesday of Advent, we remember Noah and the Flood
The ornament for today should represent Noah's Ark.
The story of Noah's Ark is found in the book of Genesis, specifically in Genesis 6-9. According to the story, during a time of great wickedness and corruption on the earth, God was determined to bring a flood to cleanse the earth. However, God chose Noah, a righteous man, and commanded him to build an ark to save himself, his family, and a pair of every kind of animal.
Noah faithfully obeyed God's instructions and built the ark as commanded. When the flood came, Noah and his family, along with the animals, entered the ark and were kept safe inside. The floodwaters covered the entire earth, wiping out all living creatures outside the ark.
After the flood receded, Noah and his family emerged from the ark and offered sacrifices to God. God made a covenant with Noah, promising never to destroy the earth by flood again. As a sign of this covenant, God set a rainbow in the sky.
From this story, we can learn several lessons. First, it teaches us about the consequences of sin. The flood was a result of humanity's wickedness and disregard for God's ways. It reminds us of the importance of living righteously and seeking to please God.
Secondly, the story highlights the faithfulness and obedience of Noah. Despite facing ridicule and doubt from others, Noah trusted in God's word and followed His instructions. It serves as an example of faith and obedience for us to emulate.
Additionally, the story emphasizes God's mercy and provision. Despite bringing judgment upon the earth, God provided a way of salvation for Noah and his family through the ark. It reminds us of God's faithfulness to protect and deliver those who trust in Him.
Furthermore, the story of Noah's Ark points forward to Jesus Christ as the ultimate Savior. Just as Noah and his family found safety in the ark, we find salvation and eternal life through faith in Jesus.
Overall, the story of Noah's Ark teaches us about the consequences of sin, the importance of faith and obedience, God's mercy and provision, and the hope found in Jesus Christ as our Savior.
For the full story check out Genesis 6-9.