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
Glory to God in the highest heaven, and peace on earth to people he favors! (Luke 2:14)
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 Lord Jesus, whether or not you entered our world anywhere close to our December 25 is irrelevant. That you were born—that you actually came from eternity into time and space, not as a metaphor or myth, fable or tale, but as our Savior—that’s what matters. We sing to you on this day with all the humility and felicity we can muster, “Mild he lays his glory by, born that man no more may die. Born to raise the sons of earth, born to give them second birth.” We praise, bless, and adore you.
Luke took great care to detail the history of your birth, but it’s the quietness of your birth that is noteworthy. Any other king would’ve come with great fanfare and a royal entourage. But you came into our world in utter stillness and profound weakness. “No room in the inn” wasn’t an insult to you; it was your choice, your plan, the way of the gospel. And we are so grateful that your plans, your ways are better than our own! Amen and 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 26 Devo | App
- She Reads Truth: Today’s Readings | Day 26 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
Your kingdom come. Your will be done on earth as it is in heaven. (Matthew 6:10)
