Lord God,
In these weeks leading up to Christmas we long to know the meaning, the power, and the mystery of that great mission whereby you came to save us from our sins.
Help us to focus on the good news that has caused great joy for people around the world and across the ages. We are in awe that the coming of the Lord Jesus has shaped the history of the world and has changed untold millions of lives. We need this gospel in troubled times lest we become cynical, doubtful, fearful, or vengeful. Strengthen our faith during challenging times.
We rejoice in the proclamation of Immanuel, God with us. As Isaiah said, “to us a child is born, to us a son is given and the government will be on his shoulders. And he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.” [Isaiah 9:6]
We need the governing of the Lord Christ because humanity is so out of control.
We need the “Wonderful Counselor” because we wander in ignorance and foolishness so much of the time.
We need the savior who is “Mighty God,” able to save and preserve.
We need an “Everlasting Father” who protects us and provides not what we think we need but what we truly need.
We need the “Prince of Peace” because of the tensions between the nations of the world, because there are thousands of people whose hearts are dark with thoughts of murder and terrorism, and because even friends and family members so often battle with each other.
We have always needed a savior. Now more than ever.
In the name of the Jesus the Christ, Son of God, Savior.
In these weeks leading up to Christmas we long to know the meaning, the power, and the mystery of that great mission whereby you came to save us from our sins.
Help us to focus on the good news that has caused great joy for people around the world and across the ages. We are in awe that the coming of the Lord Jesus has shaped the history of the world and has changed untold millions of lives. We need this gospel in troubled times lest we become cynical, doubtful, fearful, or vengeful. Strengthen our faith during challenging times.
We rejoice in the proclamation of Immanuel, God with us. As Isaiah said, “to us a child is born, to us a son is given and the government will be on his shoulders. And he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.” [Isaiah 9:6]
We need the governing of the Lord Christ because humanity is so out of control.
We need the “Wonderful Counselor” because we wander in ignorance and foolishness so much of the time.
We need the savior who is “Mighty God,” able to save and preserve.
We need an “Everlasting Father” who protects us and provides not what we think we need but what we truly need.
We need the “Prince of Peace” because of the tensions between the nations of the world, because there are thousands of people whose hearts are dark with thoughts of murder and terrorism, and because even friends and family members so often battle with each other.
We have always needed a savior. Now more than ever.
In the name of the Jesus the Christ, Son of God, Savior.
Amen.
Author:
Dr. Mel Lawrenz is Minister at Large for Elmbrook Church and Director of The Brook Network. His writings may be found at WordWay.
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