Use this devo as you are able, in whole or in part. Don’t feel compelled to read it all. Simply read and meditate upon whatever catches your attention. The goal is enjoying time with God through His Word and in prayer. Questions about the devotional elements?
Call to Prayer
Because of the Lord’s great love we are not consumed, for his compassions never fail. They are new every morning; great is your faithfulness. (Lamentations 3:22-23)
Prayer of Confession
Confession is formative. It trains us to recognize the ways our hearts have become de-formed and how Christ is at work bringing redemption in our lives. Pray with this in mind.
Dear heavenly Father, the Advent theme of waiting confronts me in every context of life. Why am I in such a hurry? Why the rush? At just the right time, you sent Jesus. Not a day too early, not a day too late. But as for me, cars in front of me cannot move fast enough; FedEx, UPS, and mail can’t get to my house quick enough; and Wi-Fi cannot be speedy enough.
Worse is how my impatience plays out in relationships. I finish people’s sentences; I fidget instead of linger; I launch instead of listen. Instead of being a nonanxious presence, I often give the impression, “Speak quick, ’cause I’m moving on.”
Father, I repent. Have mercy on my busy, cluttered, in-too-much-of-a-hurry self. According to you, the only thing that counts is faith expressing itself in love (Gal. 5:6), not meeting deadlines with time left over. People are forever; stuff is for the ash heap. Father, thank you for not being in a hurry; thank you for waiting to be gracious to us. Amen.
Take a moment to confess your sins, knowing that he hears you.
Advent Reading Plan
During Advent this year we are using the He Reads Truth and She Reads Truth Advent Devos. Readings in this plan will cover the whole of Scripture and directly point us to Christ. We will resume our OPC|M Daily Reading Plan on December 26.
- He Reads Truth: Today’s Readings | Day 18 Devo | App
- She Reads Truth: Today’s Readings | Day 18 Devo | App
Sermon Series Devo
This section of the Devo focuses on the passage(s) for Sunday’s sermon. Go ahead and read the following passage(s) and use theParables Reading Plan + Study Guide to journal what stands out and what you have questions about in the passages. Below is a helpful commentary that can help to fill in the gaps.
We are currently on a break from our normal devotional rhythm for the season of Advent. We recommend using the Advent Readings above during this time.
Evening Prayer of Examen
- Where did you move with or feel close to Jesus today?
- Where did you resist or feel far from Jesus today?
- Where is Jesus leading you tomorrow? Ask for joy as you follow him.
Benediction
Return O my soul to your rest; for the Lord has dealt bountifully with you. (Psalm 116:7)
