Today’s Reflection
Lingering in the longer season of Christmas gives a deeper sense of wonder and awe concerning the Incarnation—the basic task of the church calendar. We begin the Christian year in Advent with a sense of expectation and hope. We prepare to celebrate God’s gift in Jesus Christ. We come to a sense of fulfillment at Christmas and discover a renewed sense of awe and praise at the news of Jesus’ birth. We continue to reflect with a sense of wonder as the church year moves to Epiphany and the remembrance of the magi’s visit.
—George H. Donigian, In Days to Come: From Advent to Epiphany (Upper Room Books, 2017)
Today’s Question
How can you maintain a sense of wonder all year long? Join the conversation.
Today’s Scripture
When they saw that the star had stopped, they were overwhelmed with joy. On entering the house, they saw the child with Mary his mother; and they knelt down and paid him homage. Then, opening their treasure chests, they offered him gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh.
—Matthew 2:10-11 (NRSV)
Prayer for the Week
New every morning is your love, great God of light, and all day long you are working for good in the world. Stir up in us desire to serve you, to live peacefully with our neighbors and all your creation, and to devote each day to your Son, our Savior Jesus Christ. Amen.
—“A Liturgy for Morning Prayer,” Upper Room Worshipbook
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Lectionary Readings
(Courtesy of Vanderbilt Divinity Library)
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2 Comments
I am in awe of God’s care. I have aan interview with a bagel shop I go to regularly tomorrow. The person from the Credit Union reached out to me via email and I need to fiinish so I can call her. Please pray for me.
Prayers for safe travels for Ally and David, Jill and Robert. Prayers for Jeremy and Roger to do well while theeir loved ones are gone. Prayerrs for Lou and her youngest, may they resolve all their issues. Prayers for Marti and her staff. Thank you for your prayers and may God bless all who visit here.
‘Search and you shall find, knock and it will be opened unto you.” We are told to do this again and again. This helps me maintain a sense of word all year long. Had a wonderful time with granddaughters, my daughter, her husband and his family. Sad to have missed the ZOOM Christmas Eve service from my church, but attended the ZOOM service Sunday, Ready for Bible study tomorrow. Soon a new year will be here, we are already in a Christian New Year.
Prayers for Julie’s job opportunities, health issues for all, Lou’s youngest with mental health issues. I add Erich too. Thankful the plan seems to be progressing very well. Roger and Jeremy are in my thoughts. Blessings to all this week as December ends and January begins. It has been a good day, I’m tired from my drive, time for a nap. Thank You, Lord.
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