Prayer Tip--Wise Ones Still Seek Him
Daily Scripture
Matthew 2:1b-2, 8a, 9b, 10-11
During the rule of King Herod, magi came from the east to Jerusalem. They asked, “Where is the newborn king of the Jews? We’ve seen his star in the east, and we’ve come to honor him.”… Then Herod… sent them to Bethlehem… and look, the star they had seen in the east went ahead of them until it stood over the place where the child was. When they saw the star, they were filled with joy. They entered the house and saw the child with Mary his mother. Falling to their knees, they honored him. Then they opened their treasure chests and presented him with gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh.
Daily Reflection & Prayer
As we draw near to the end of Advent, we join the billions of Christians over the centuries who’ve celebrated the birth of Jesus, God come to earth as a baby. Two of the names Matthew gives to God arriving in the flesh are “Jesus” (meaning “God saves”) and “Immanuel” (meaning “God with us”).
The fourth Sunday of Advent focuses on the love of God–his self-sacrificing, unconditional, saving love.
In what ways have you encountered God’s saving love in your life?
In what ways have you encountered God in Jesus–the one who “saves you from your sins?” What do you think it means to be saved from your sins? What sins do you desire to be saved from today? I encourage you to ask Jesus to save you from these sins as you confess them to him.
In what ways have you encountered Jesus as Immanuel, “God with you?” Think of a time when you felt God was with you. Remember what it was like. What situation do you find yourself in today where you need to be reminded that God is always with you? I encourage you to invite God into that situation.
Prayer
Wonderful and holy God, you are the one who saves us. You are the one who saves me. I acknowledge your salvation again today and am humbled. Thank you for saving me.
Ever-present God, you are the one who is always with us. You are always with me. Open my mind and my heart to see you in all things. Thank you for your presence.
On this final Sunday of Advent, let your breathtaking love flow through me and out into this world. Empower me to be a light in the darkness for you. Let my hands move at the impulse of your love for the sake of others.
I ask this all in the name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit. Amen.
GPS Insights
David Andersen
| This week's prayer tip is by David Andersen, who serves as the Leadership Development and Mentoring Ministry Program Director for all Resurrection locations. He is a life-long Kansas City native. He’s been married over 30 years and has two adult sons. He loves composing music, learning new things, writing, running, and creating spaces where people can encounter God. |
