“I thirst.” These two words, some of the last you spoke from the cross, Lord, voice the need we all have to taste of your living water. Your invitation is clear and pierces to the quick. Let it ring in all hearts. Let those who hear turn. Let those who thirst come. Let the dying … Read more
Jesus, my Lord, some days I just want your second coming more than anything. My heart goes to the next-to-last prayer in Scripture, “even so, come, Lord Jesus.” Like Simeon, I want to see your coming while I still live. Forgive my selfishness, Lord. The last prayer in your Word far overpowers any selfish desire … Read more
Long ago and far away in a distant land, you spoke to your people through prophets, Father. But, then you sent Jesus, with whom the apostles spoke directly. Now, you speak to us through Jesus and the writings of the prophets and apostles in your Word. This Jesus, who was sent by you and titled … Read more
Almighty God, you are far more than we can think or know. Your thoughts are not ours, and we comprehend only a fraction of them. Your plan of salvation and reversing the curse included sending the Messiah, the Holy One, the Redeemer, the Miracle-working Savior. We asked for signs. Jesus came and performed more miracles … Read more
Infant Warrior Infant warrior of the night, Drawing wise men from afar, Is it you I’ve waited for? Soft-skinned virgin’s issue, Lying swaddled in the straw, Lowly boy child in the light Of distant guiding star, Is it you who kindled its fire? Helpless baby, meek and mild Destined for a crown of thorns Tiny … Read more
Holy God, you are all knowing, all seeing. No one knows better than you how the enemy prowls and seeks to destroy. Put up your hedge of protection around those who hear your Christmas story and believe, Father. Don’t let them be the infertile soil in which the seeds of faith cannot grow and prosper. … Read more
I am small, God of all. I’m a tiny voice in the noisy crowd. I’m the short kid standing behind the parade watchers. Some days the opposition surrounds me, and I feel like the Dr. Suess Who, shouting your words to the forest canopy. “He’s here, he’s here, God is here!” Forgive my discouragement, Father. … Read more
Father, if I randomly asked people why we celebrate Christmas, how many would actually know and understand? Tell us the story again. Let us glorify God with all we hear and see. Let us tell others of what is told to us through your Word, how Jesus became flesh and walked on earth, how those … Read more
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