I’m settling down for long winter’s nap. Before I do, I’d like to leave you with a Christmas prayer of sorts. I’ve been studying Mary’s story for the Written On Our Hearts series. In looking at her response to the angel Gabriel and his message, I can understand why God would choose Mary to carry and mother his own son. This is the prayer I wrote in my journal…
A new day of great mercies and grace upon grace–thank you, Father, for meeting me in all my days.
Holy Spirit, teach me to listen to the words and calling of the Lord. And when his words seem impossible, teach me to ask for understanding instead of arguing with the one who holds everything together.
Teach me to respond to what I hear, Spirit of Christ, by presenting my body in service to Lord—may it be to me all that you speak. This is worship. And when fear seeps into the cracks of my faith, teach me to stay bowed down and fascinated by you.
Teach me to rejoice. Shut my mouth with its complaints and rants of unfairness. When the Lord’s words are hard, even scandalous, Spirit of God, teach me to magnify the Lord and his greater, eternal work. I have a reason to rejoice.
Have yourself a merry little Christmas and happy new year. I’m looking forward to these posts and more in 2017:
Written On Our Hearts: Ruth, Michal & Bathsheba, Mary
Harassing the Lord (Hosea 6:3)
Community
Brave Sparrow 