Last week we looked briefly at the spiritual discipline of discernment: being aware of God and his guidance as we choose what truly matters. Today as we consider Mary the mother of Jesus, we see another spiritual discipline: surrender. This is accepting God’s plan and moving into his will—which often involves letting a few things … Continue reading Advent Week 4, Day 1
Today we’re looking at John the Baptist’s description of Jesus. The next day he saw Jesus coming toward him, and said, “Behold, the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world! This is he of whom I said, ‘After me comes a man who ranks before me, because he was before me.’ I myself did not know him, … Continue reading Advent Week 3, Day 4
As you read, choose a verse or phrase to carry with you all day long. If you've joined our facebook group (Light for a Dark Season Discussion Group), share it with us! Isaiah 12 This is our psalm today, a song of praise and thanksgiving. You can read all the scriptures right here. Zephaniah 3:14-18 … Continue reading Advent Week 3, Day 3
Look for a verse or phrase to treasure as you read today's scriptures. They're all here. Psalm 126 Isaiah 61:1-11 I Thessalonians 5:16-24 John 1:6-8, 18-28 Notes Psalm 126: This psalm of lament remembers a former time of God’s mercy, and calls out to him to once again deliver his people. Isaiah 61: When Jesus … Continue reading Advent Week 3, Day 2
John the Baptist spent several decades—in fact, most of his life—waiting for God to tell him that now was the moment to declare the Messiah had arrived. The Bible doesn’t tell us anything about John’s growing up years. We see him as a tiny baby in his father’s arms and then quite suddenly he is … Continue reading Advent Week 3, Day 1
For to us a child is born, to us a son is given; and the government shall be upon his shoulder, and his name shall be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. (Isaiah 9:6) These are familiar words. Let’s define them. (See end of post for sources) Wonderful: admirable, distinguished. Every time this word is used in scripture, … Continue reading Advent Week 2, Day 4
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
Light for a Dark Season 