In the midst of your ordinary days this week, we invite you to pause and reflect on this truth:
The hope we long for is not something distant, but someone present.
Scripture Reading
Isaiah 7:14 (ESV)
Therefore the Lord himself will give you a sign. Behold, the virgin shall conceive and bear a son, and shall call his name Immanuel.
Matthew 1:18–23 (ESV)
Now the birth of Jesus Christ took place in this way. When his mother Mary had been betrothed to Joseph, before they came together she was found to be with child from the Holy Spirit. And her husband Joseph, being a just man and unwilling to put her to shame, resolved to divorce her quietly. But as he considered these things, behold, an angel of the Lord appeared to him in a dream, saying, “Joseph, son of David, do not fear to take Mary as your wife, for that which is conceived in her is from the Holy Spirit. She will bear a son, and you shall call his name Jesus, for he will save his people from their sins.” All this took place to fulfill what the Lord had spoken by the prophet: “Behold, the virgin shall conceive and bear a son, and they shall call his name Immanuel” (which means, God with us).
A Prayer for the Week
God of Hope,
When fear or weariness begin to shadow our days this week, lift our eyes to see your faithfulness.
When we are tempted to trust in our own strength and resources, remind us again that your invitation to quiet faith is the better way.
May your presence and hope anchor us as we wait for the fullness of your kingdom to come.
Amen.
Reflection Questions
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