Read the scriptures and look for a verse to treasure today. (All the scriptures are right here.) Luke 1:68-79 (Today’s psalm is a poetic prayer that John the Baptist’s father spoke after John’s birth.) Malachi 3:1-4 Philippians 1:4-11 Luke 3:1-6 Notes Luke 1: This prayer by Zachariah is known as the “Benedictus.” (A Benediction is … Continue reading Advent Week 2, Day 3
Read today's scriptures, looking for a treasure to contemplate all day. I especially like beginning the readings with a Psalm. The prayers in Psalms help me to focus on the Lord and quiet my mind. (All of this week's scriptures are right here.) Psalm 85:1-13 Isaiah 40:1-11 2 Peter 3:8-14 Mark 1:1-8 Notes Psalm 85: … Continue reading Advent Week 2, Day 2
Come, Thou long expected Jesus Born to set Thy people free; From our fears and sins release us, Let us find our rest in Thee. Israel’s Strength and Consolation, Hope of all the earth Thou art; Dear Desire of every nation, Joy of every longing heart. Born Thy people to deliver, Born a child and … Continue reading Advent Week 2, Day 1
Our characters this week are Abraham and Sarah. Let’s look at what they knew about God. Later Yahweh spoke his word to Abram in a vision. He said, “Abram, don’t be afraid. I am your shield. Your reward will be very great.” Abram asked, “Adonay Yahweh, what will you give me? (Genesis 15:1-2) Adonay (sometimes spelled Adonai) … Continue reading Advent Week 1, Day 4
Read the scriptures, looking for a treasure verse or phrase you can ponder all day. (You can read today's scriptures here.) Psalm 25:1-9 Jeremiah 33:14-16 I Thessalonians 3:12-4:2 Luke 21:25-28, 34-36 Notes Psalm 25:1-5: Verse 4 asks the Lord to teach us his paths. Following his path includes not only following his will in making big … Continue reading Advent Week 1, Day 3
Read the scriptures, looking for words to pray and words to treasure. (Links to the scriptures are here.) Psalm 80 Isaiah 63:16-19; 64:1-7 I Corinthians 1:3-9 Mark 13:33-37 Notes Psalm 80 is a lament, a prayer that expresses despair and a cry for deliverance. Lamenting is an aspect of prayer that is invaluable in dark … Continue reading Advent Week 1, Day 2
O Come, O Come, Emmanuel O come, O come, Emmanuel, And ransom captive Israel, That mourns in lonely exile here Until the Son of God appear. Chorus Rejoice! Rejoice! Emmanuel shall come to thee, O Israel. O come, Thou Wisdom from on high, Who orderest all things mightily; To us the path of knowledge show, … Continue reading Advent Week 1, Day 1
