So much to think about this time of year, Father…prayers of a young mother marveling her fate, ancient stories told by shepherds and travel blogs of wise men trying to elude a king in visiting the King of kings. The glitz and trappings get in my way, and the noise of credit cards sliding through … Read more
Father, every day closer to another celebration of Jesus’ birth is another day to sing your praises. Let me join in the song of the heavenly host, declaring your goodness. What a joyful noise we make together to welcome your Son. What a picture of worship that invokes. What a marvelous chorus gathered, singing along … Read more
Today is a beautiful day, because “blessed is she who believed that there would be a fulfillment of what was spoken to her from the Lord.” (Luke 1: 45 ESV) Advent #joyinverse #blessedthisdayandeveryday
Yahweh Shalom, the LORD of peace, you are the author of the Good News. Let us not be afraid, but reverence you. I pray we rejoice in the Good News. It brings great joy. We are blessed again by the angel’s message, “Glory to God on earth; and peace among those with which he is … Read more
Today is a beautiful day, because an angel of the LORD said to Mary, “And behold, you will conceive in your womb and bear a son, and you shall call his name Jesus. He will be great and will be called the Son of the Most High.” (Luke 1: 31-32 ESV) Advent #joyinverse #blessedthisdayandeveryday
Father, there is a place that needs to exist in me, as special place only for your Spirit. Make more room in my heart for you, Lord, less of me and more of you, less of my will and all of yours. Captivate my heart with your love and grace. Draw me closer into relationship … Read more
Today is a beautiful day, because “Gabriel was sent from God to a city of Galilee named Nazareth, to a virgin betrothed to a man whose name was Joseph, of the house of David. And the virgin’s name was Mary.” (Luke 1: 26-27 ESV) Advent #joyinverse #blessedthisdayandeveryday
Mighty God, you are the keeper of my soul. You are gracious and good to me. My spirit rejoices in you. I am blessed, because you do great things for me. You show me mercy and grant me strength from your powerful arm. You brought me out of myself into a humble state of reverence. … Read more
Today is a beautiful day, because wise men came to worship the Messiah. “Where is he who has been born king of the Jews? For we saw his star when it rose and have come to worship him.” (Matthew 2: 2 ESV) advent #joyinverse #blessedthisdayandeveryday
Heavenly Father, you are the God who tells us, “Do not fear.” We are not to fear, but we are to reverence you. Let us feel your favor. Let us hear you speak to our hearts and not fear for anything. Let us learn to trust you, to trust your story of salvation and redemption … Read more