Scripture Reading
Isaiah 8:8b, 10b
"Its outspread wings will cover the breadth of your land, Immanuel!" ... "Devise your strategy, but it will be thwarted; propose your plan, but it will not stand, for God is with us."
Reflection
The last of the O Antiphons sings the name that is the whole gospel: Emmanuel, God-with-us. Not God-watching-from-a-distance, not God-issuing-commands-from-on-high, but God pitched among us, breathing our air, hearing our cries. Tomorrow he comes. Every scheme of darkness will be thwarted, for God is with us.
Prayer for Today
Lord, I want to be filled with Your courage and strength. I want to live by every word that comes from Your mouth and speak boldly about what You can and will do.
The threats against my marriage are wimpy compared to Your great power.
Joshua put his godless enemies to death. He listened to Your voice and obeyed You.
You gave him authority to accomplish Your will. He commanded the sun to stand still, and You made it happen for the glory of Your name and the protection of Your people.
Teach me, Lord, to exercise the authority You have given me. Train me to hear Your voice and respond without hesitation.
Make me brave. Use me to war against the enemies of our marriage in prayer using the Sword of Your Spirit.
I believe You are able, Lord. Please help my unbelief.
With faith in Jesus' blood and righteousness, I pray.
Amen
The threats against my marriage are wimpy compared to Your great power.
Joshua put his godless enemies to death. He listened to Your voice and obeyed You.
You gave him authority to accomplish Your will. He commanded the sun to stand still, and You made it happen for the glory of Your name and the protection of Your people.
Teach me, Lord, to exercise the authority You have given me. Train me to hear Your voice and respond without hesitation.
Make me brave. Use me to war against the enemies of our marriage in prayer using the Sword of Your Spirit.
I believe You are able, Lord. Please help my unbelief.
With faith in Jesus' blood and righteousness, I pray.
Amen
Amen.