Advent Devotions
All are invited as we Make Room this Advent season.
Lost and Found in God’s Story
The story of twelve-year-old Jesus in the temple which we’ll encounter this Sunday reminds us that even the most ordinary moments—like a family trip to Jerusalem—can reveal extraordinary truths about God. When Mary and Joseph realize Jesus is missing, they search frantically, only to find him sitting among the teachers, astonishing them with his wisdom. Jesus’ words, “Didn’t you know I had to be in my Father’s house?” invite us to consider how we, too, are drawn deeper into God’s story, even when it takes us by surprise.
One of my favorites, Frederick Buechner, writes, “Listen to your life. See it for the fathomless mystery that it is. In the boredom and pain of it no less than in the excitement and gladness: touch, taste, smell your way to the holy and hidden heart of it because in the last analysis all moments are key moments.”[1] This story invites us to pay attention to the ordinary moments where God is revealed, even when life feels confusing or out of control.
As we close this series, we are reminded that God’s extraordinary story continues to unfold through our questions, our searching, and our growth. Like Jesus in the temple, we are called to seek and reflect God’s presence in our lives, wherever we may find ourselves.
May you find yourself in God’s story today. -Pastor Peter
Let’s pray… God who meets us in every moment, help us see your presence in the ordinary and guide us deeper into your extraordinary story. Amen.
[1] Now and Then, Harper & Row, 1983, p. 87
Previously…
The Holy Spirit
Today's author is Prince of Peace members, Michael Stetzler and Suzan Hurlbut. Luke 2:21-38 What are the odds? For well over a thousand years people like Simeon and Anna had been waiting for the messiah. What are the odds of being chosen to witness the...
A Light for All the Ages
The stories of Simeon and Anna that we heard yesterday remind us that God’s work often shines brightest through those who are overlooked. Simeon’s faithful waiting and Anna’s tireless devotion show that age is no barrier to bearing witness to God’s promises. These elders didn’t perform extraordinary acts; they simply showed up, paid attention, and proclaimed the truth when they saw it.
Faithful Waiting, Joyful Witness
We’ve spent the weeks leading up to Christmas revisiting Luke’s opening chapters and the ordinary people who have had the extraordinary thrust upon them. In this coming Sunday’s reading, we’ll meet Simeon and Anna, two ordinary yet faithful people who have spent their lives waiting for God’s promise to be fulfilled.
Love is born! Come, share in the Wonder
Today's author is Prince of Peace member, Carol Swanson. pixabay.com The birth story of Jesus that Luke writes is so full of joy and peace, hope and love! It is the “overture” of the whole gospel. In this time of Christmas 2024, take time to read and ponder the...