Wednesday December 2, 2020

Begin this new day by praying this prayer out loud. As you are able, consider kneeling as a physical expression of your commitment to Jesus as Lord of your life and the one you desire to lead you this day. Alternatively, you might consider placing a hand over your heart as you pray this prayer.

Lord,
We come to you with great anticipation and preparation. Open our minds, open our hearts, open ourselves to what you want us to hear and experience today as we read your word.

In you, Lord my God, I put my trust. I trust in you; do not let me be put to shame, nor let my enemies triumph over me.No one who hopes in you will ever be put to shame, but shame will come on those who are treacherous without cause. Show me your ways, Lord, teach me your paths. Guide me in your truth and teach me, for you are God my Savior, and my hope is in you all day long.

Psalm 25:1-5

“Maranatha” means “Come, Lord Jesus” in Aramaic, the language of Jesus. It reflects the desire for advent. It contains a hope, a belief that Jesus will indeed come. Maranatha, the cry of advent contains desperation for Christ, a knowing that Christ has come, is coming, and will come again. How often do you cry out for Jesus? What parts of your life are in desperate need of Jesus, yet you withhold your cry out of fear, or shame, or doubt?

Hope begins in the dark. It comes out of a place of desperation, pain, grief, suffering…..and it holds within it, assurance, faith, trust. This week, as we begin the season of Advent, as we practice the patience required in waiting, let us boldly cry out for Christ! Make this your mantra for the next 23 days. “Maranatha! Come, Lord Jesus! I am in desperate need of you, today and always.”

When you are finished with your time of reflection, close out this time with this prayer.

Lord, Make advent real in our hearts.
Never have we needed Your joy and peace more than now.
Thank You for the gift of Jesus, our Immanuel, the Word made flesh.

Lord, we need Your peace and joy. We know that peace on earth can only come when hearts find peace with You. You are still our Joy. You are still our Peace. And we still celebrate You as Lord—this Christmas and always.