Abba, You are the Source of good things, the Hope that secures our tomorrows, the Provider of everything we need. Thank You for Your goodness and love.

Teach me to trust You! I am tempted to look for things to fill my life with happiness, chasing the mirage of fulfillment. My focus is pulled in so many directions. Draw my attention to things eternal, leading me to joy, filling the deepest longings of my heart.

Holy Spirit, make the promise found in Isaiah’s inspired words real to me in new ways. He asks,
“Why spend your money on food that does not give you strength?
Why pay for food that does you no good?
Listen to me, and you will eat what is good.
You will enjoy the finest food.
“Come to me with your ears wide open.
Listen, and you will find life.”  (55)

Jesus, in this holy season of Advent help me to enjoy the lights, gatherings, songs, and celebrations even as I clearly see the Gift of Your coming to be my Savior. Open my heart and mind to the Blessed Hope that You will come to defeat sin and evil. Oh Lord, that day seems so far distant sometimes in this troubled and suffering world.

So I pray …
“Come, Thou long expected Jesus,
born to set Thy people free;
from our fears and sins release us,
let us find our rest in Thee.
Israel’s strength and consolation,
hope of all the earth Thou art;
dear desire of every nation,
joy of every longing heart.”  (Wesley)

Amen