ADVENT READINGS!
WEEK 3: FREEDOM & SLAVERY
“He has sent me to proclaim liberty to the captives.”
Thursday | December 17
Psalms 27:1-4 The LORD is my light and my salvation; whom shall I fear? The LORD is the stronghold of my life; of whom shall I be afraid? When evildoers assail me, uttering slanders against me, my adversaries and foes, they shall stumble and fall. Though a host encamp against me, my heart shall not fear; though war arise against me, yet I will be confident. One thing have I asked of the LORD, that will I seek after; that I may dwell in the house of the LORD all the days of my life, to behold the beauty of the LORD, and to inquire in his temple.
In an age of darkness, it is helpful to admit that there really is a battle raging. Evil exists, and suffering is real. Whether physically or mentally, whether from human enemies or spiritual enemies, to live in the world is to be assailed and assaulted. We trip and we fall not just because we are fallen and sinful people (though we are), it is also because evil wants to ruin us and take us captive. Unless we understand this, we will not see how marvelous it is that we have a strong God who has come to fight our battles. Here the Psalmist acknowledges the fight of life, but takes refuge in God his protector. Even more, he sees that the end of the battle will not just be victory - but beauty. He will be with His God - and so will we. Pray that today you would acknowledge the battle, see God as your protector, and trust that the end will be beautiful.
Morning Kneeling Prayer
Father, I pray that I would
enter this day as your Son
entered the world, full of love
and hope.
Amen.
Midday Kneeling Prayer
Jesus, I pray that I would be present in my work as you were present in this world, full of humility and service.
Amen.
Evening Kneeling Prayer
Holy Spirit, I pray that I would be at peace in my rest knowing that you came to bring peace to the world, and will one day bring rest to all things. Amen.