We have expectations, but are often met with a reality that looks much different than we hoped. The good news of Jesus Christ is this: Who he really is, the reality beyond our expectations, is very good news for us.
This advent we discover who Jesus is and what he is promised to be through stories of the Old Testament. There a promise was made and expectations began. From the Old Testament to now, we learn Jesus is much better than we expected.
Invocation
Make the sign of the cross, and say,
In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. Amen.
Invitation Prayer
Jesus Christ is the Light of the world. The light no darkness can overcome.
Jesus, open our eyes to your light and our ears to your words of hope. Come, O long-expected Jesus. Our hope is in you. Amen.
Word: Genesis 33:9
“But Esau said ‘I already have plenty, my brother. Keep what you have for yourself.’”
Meditation: Questions
Today’s meditation is written by Koleen Barnes
I think most people have at least one question they dread answering at the holidays. It took me a long time to realize there is always another looming question. It starts with “how is school?” then maybe “what is your major?” “What are you doing after graduation?” “Who are you dating?” Then you escalate to engagement, marriage, kids. The questions regarding your current and next steps never seem to stop. Though these questions are often conversation starters and have the best of intentions, they can be daunting.
For me, whichever questions aligned with my life stage used to haunt me leading up to the holidays. For years I dreaded having to answer in a way that would remove the person asking from my radar. Somehow I felt I needed to generate the perfect answer to portray this person I wanted to be. I never felt like the truth was sufficient.
Over the past few years I have worked hard to live more in the moment. I have tried not to worry as much about the next step. I have been striving to realize that I already have plenty, like Esau. The life and circumstances God has given me are far from perfect, butI am exactly where I need to be. I am exactly who I need to be to each person in my life.
I hope that whatever question you are dreading this holiday season–you realize that you already have plenty. There is no perfect answer to appease your pesky aunt or overly strict grandfather. I hope that you are able to tell them the honest truth…okay, well maybe not too honest, and enjoy your family gatherings. I hope you realize that you are enough.
Dear Heavenly Father, I ask that you help me to remember that I am enough and that you love me just as I am. Remind me that I am yours and you have put me exactly where I need to be. Amen.
Prayer for Daily Callings
· For my occupation, workplace, coworkers.
· For my work to be good for others, an extension of God’s love and care.
· For the unemployed.
· For growth in my career; not to work for a paycheck but for you and others.
· For discernment, if I should pursue another job or direction in life.
· For my callings at home as spouse, son/daughter, brother/sister.
· For schools, teachers, classmates.
· For eyes to see God’s work around me this day. For the courage to participate in it.
· Not to be comfortable in my callings, but to be useful.
Closing Prayer
Heavenly Father, we live in a world full of tension. In your son you hold all tensions in perfect balance, justice and mercy, agony and ecstasy, law and Gospel. Create in me deeper faith in you in the midst of tension. Amen!