In the sixth month of Elizabeth’s pregnancy, God sent the angel Gabriel to Nazareth, a town in Galilee, 27 to a virgin pledged to be married to a man named Joseph, a descendant of David. The virgin’s name was Mary. 28 The angel went to her and said, “Greetings, you who are highly favored! The Lord is with you.”
Today’s prayer: Most Holy God, you could have remained separate and distant from us in our sinful state. But in your great love, you looked on our helpless isolation and sent your Son, Immanuel, God With Us, to come to us that we might come to you. Oh, the bliss of this glorious thought! In this moment, would you bring me a very real comfort with the knowledge of your very real presence? Remind my heart, my mind, my body—my entire soul, that I am not alone because you, the God of the universe, dwells with me. In the same way, send your Comforter, your Spirit, to those who are suffering this season, especially… [Take a moment to name those in need of God’s comfort.] Let us all know the same hope and joy Mary felt when she heard the good news that you are with us. In Jesus’ name. Amen.”
— 25 Prayers to Christmas: Praying through the Christmas story by Chris Paavola
https://a.co/5NSYJdR
We leave a little space now to listen...making ourselves available through quietness to the holy spirits whisper flowing from his word.
You may find it helpful to pause this recording and reread the passage and prayer again as you meditate on the following question:
"Jesus what are you saying to me today?"
