In the middle of our ordinary days, we are invited to pause and reflect on this truth:
The joy we long for is not something distant, but someone present.
Scripture Readings
Zephaniah 3:17 (ESV)
"The Lord your God is in your midst,
a mighty one who will save;
he will rejoice over you with gladness;
he will quiet you by his love;
he will exult over you with loud singing."
Luke 1:46–55 (ESV)
The Song of Mary
And Mary said,
“My soul magnifies the Lord,
and my spirit rejoices in God my Savior,
for he has looked on the humble estate of his servant.
For behold, from now on all generations will call me blessed;
for he who is mighty has done great things for me,
and holy is his name.
And his mercy is for those who fear him
from generation to generation.
He has shown strength with his arm;
he has scattered the proud in the thoughts of their hearts;
he has brought down the mighty from their thrones
and exalted those of humble estate;
he has filled the hungry with good things,
and the rich he has sent away empty.
He has helped his servant Israel,
in remembrance of his mercy,
as he spoke to our fathers,
to Abraham and to his offspring forever.”
A Prayer for the Week
God of Joy,
You are the one who is in our midst, rejoicing over us with singing.
Teach us to receive the joy that comes not from our circumstances,
but from your faithful presence with us.
Like Mary, help our souls to magnify you -
to recognize the great things you have done
and the mercy you continue to show from generation to generation.
When discouragement or weariness rise in us this week,
lift our eyes to your saving strength.
Quiet us with your love.
Fill the hungry places in our hearts with the joy of your nearness.
Make us a people who carry your joy into the world -
gentle, humble, and full of praise.
Amen.
Reflect
- Do I find it difficult to believe that God is truly glad to be with me? How does the gospel, the good news of Jesus, address my fear or hesitation to receive this joy?
- What simple practice could help me notice God’s joy towards me this week? A few moments of silence, gratitude, lighting a candle, praying Mary’s words - something small that creates space for joy to rise.
|
