22nd. December. 2021. Daily Devotion.

And there were shepherds living out in the fields nearby, keeping watch over their flocks at night. An angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified. But the angel said to them, ‘Do not be afraid. I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people.’ Luke 2;8-10

Reflect

Let’s continue our advent journey thinking about those who are living in darkness. They may be on the other side of the world from us, or right next door. There are many reasons for walking in darkness – fear, loneliness, oppression, depression, poverty or violence are just a few. God sees those in darkness and becomes light for them.

Lord, we name before you those we know who are going through times of darkness. We think of them and ask, gracious God, that you may bring them light, hope, love and direction. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Ancient Prayer for Wisdom

From the throne of your glory, O Lord, send forth your wisdom to live in our hearts, to be at work in our lives and to speak in our conscience; that our thoughts, words and actions may be according to your will and reveal your glory; through Christ our Lord. Amen. Aelred of Rievaulx (c.1109-1167)

Prayer for Renewal

As I start this day, oh Lord, I wonder: How will this day be different from any other day? Has my faith in you grown into a stale routine, or will I grow this day, closer to you than I have ever been?

Shake me up, Holy God! Rattle the door of my cage, set off my smoke detector, ring my doorbell until I answer the door! Let me read your Word until something new sinks in; let me pray until I hear your voice, until all smugness has given way to gratitude. By the power of your Holy Spirit, renew me afresh in your Word and power, today and every day, energizing me in your great commission. In Christ’s name, I pray. Amen.

Advent Prayer

O King of David, and sceptre of the house of Israel, who opens so that none can shut, and shuts so that none can open: Come, bring the prisoners out of the prison, those who are shut in darkness and the shadow of death.

O Dayspring, brightness of the light everlasting, sun everlasting: Come, enlighten those who sit in darkness and the shadow of death.

O King of all nations, desire of all nations, cornerstone of the single church within which all may dwell: Come, save divided mankind, whom you have formed from clay.

O Emmanuel, our King and lawgiver, the salvation of all: Come, save us, Oh Lord our God. Amen.

Benediction

Eternal God, heavenly Father, you have graciously accepted me as a living member of your Son our Saviour Jesus Christ, and you have blessed me with the grace of forgiveness through the sacrifice He made for me and for all people. Send me now into the world in peace and grant me strength and courage to love and serve you with gladness and singleness of heart, through Christ our Lord. Amen.