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An Advent Prayer: The Blessing(s) of Immanuel

     And we know that for those who love God all things work together for good, for those who are called according to his purpose. For those whom he foreknew he also predestined to be conformed to the image of his Son, in order that he might be the firstborn among many brothers. And those whom he predestined he also called, and those whom he called he also justified, and those whom he justified he also glorified. What then shall we say to these things? If God is for us, who can be against us? He who did not spare his own Son but gave him up for us all, how will he not also with him graciously give us all things? Rom. 8:28-32 (NIV)

     Dear Lord Jesus—Immanuel, God with us and God so very much for us, I cannot read this favorite Scripture without thinking about Advent, and why you have come, and why you are coming again. The hopes and hurts, fears and tears of all my years are met right here in this passage. You are all we need, and way beyond all we can imagine.

     Lord Jesus, O, the peace I have that comes from knowing you are presently at work in all things for your glory and for our good—in the obvious and when I’m oblivious; in my laughter and in my losses; in the things I “get” and in the things which vex me; when I’m “feeling the love” and when I’m feeling very lonely; when the gospel is my greatest reality, and when I’m tempted to say with John the Baptist, “Are you the Messiah, or should we be looking for another?”

     There is no other Messiah, Savior, or Lord but you, Jesus; and absolutely nothing will separate me from your love, for I’ve been called according to the Father’s purpose—which will never fail or falter. He “foreknew” me and set his affection upon me before the world began; and he will continue to provide everything necessary to complete the work of the gospel in my life, in the whole family of God, and in the entire creation. Joy to the world, and to me, indeed! So very Amen I pray, in your merciful and mighty name.

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