Out of Darkness and Into Light

Arise, shine; for your light has come,

and the glory of the Lord has risen upon you.

For darkness shall cover the earth,

and thick darkness the peoples;

but the Lord will arise upon you,

and his glory will appear over you.

Nations shall come to your light

and kings to the brightness of your dawn...

but the Lord will be your everlasting light,

and your God will be your glory.

Isaiah 60:1-3, 19

Heavenly Father,

Let us feel the light of your Spirit within us and let us project that light into the world. Vanquish all the areas in our lives that are snares and traps, tripping us up on our walk, taking away from us the joy and peace that there is to be found in You only. We praise you for sending us your only Son. We praise you for the redemption we find through the blood of Jesus.

He was God incarnate walking among us on earth. He could have had it all. Instead he chose to live among the poor, among the most wretched among us. To walk among the dusty streets amidst suffering and poverty, to bring healing and light, love and compassion to those that needed it most. With Christ, came the greatest message of hope. May that hope blossom within our hearts, spurring us onward to discovering more ways in which we can serve you and glorify your name.

May we reflect deeply, through prayer, meditation and encountering you through your Word, the deep meaning of Advent. Like Mary who, pregnant with Jesus, awaited his birth with much expectation and joy, may we prepare our hearts in quiet humble adoration for Christmas, in which we celebrate the coming of our Lord into this world.

In Jesus' name,
Amen