Invitation — Isaiah 52:7
"How beautiful on the mountains are the feet of those who bring good news, who proclaim peace, who bring good tidings, who proclaim salvation, who say to Zion, 'Your God reigns!'"
Quiet
Bible Song — Psalm 25:1, 16-22
In you, Lord my God,
I put my trust...
Turn to me and be gracious to me,
for I am lonely and afflicted.
Relieve the troubles of my heart
and free me from my anguish.
Look on my affliction and my distress
and take away all my sins.
See how numerous are my enemies
and how fiercely they hate me!
Guard my life and rescue me;
do not let me be put to shame,
for I take refuge in you.
May integrity and uprightness protect me,
because my hope, Lord, is in you.
Deliver Israel, O God,
from all their troubles!
Bible Reading — Isaiah 9:2, 6-7
The people walking in darkness have seen a great light; on those living in the land of deep darkness a light has dawned...
For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders. And he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.
Of the greatness of his government and peace there will be no end. He will reign on David's throne and over his kingdom, establishing and upholding it with justice and righteousness from that time on and forever. The zeal of the Lord Almighty will accomplish this.
Quiet
Dwelling
Read again, perhaps out loud ... how has God's Word moved you? Ponder and meditate what has connected with your heart or mind ... pray to God what it is that has moved you today ... turn your thoughts to God and quietly enjoy being with him.
Free Prayer
- for fellowship with the coming Jesus
- for spiritual renewal and refreshment
The Lord's Prayer
Prayer — BC 18
Wonderful Counselor and mighty God, I celebrate your coming to save, becoming a servant, and being made in human likeness. While it's easy to believe this was really good camouflage, I rejoice that this was no disguise but your delight. Quiet me with your love that knows the vulnerability of human life — you've been through it all, taking to yourself a real human nature with all its weaknesses, all but the sin. Amen.
Blessing — Luke 1:68
"Praise be to the Lord, the God of Israel, because he has come to his people and redeemed them."