Advent 2018 – Day One – Here comes the Son

As we begin to prepare for Christmas, we start to see an increasing number of seasonal lights appearing around us. In our city centre, in the streets, in and on some houses and possibly even in our own homes.

From the magnificent displays we see on some houses in St Albans to a simple lit star or welcome candle arch in a window.

These lights are, for some, just beautiful displays giving expression to the enjoyment of the season.

For us, as Christians, they are a symbol of the coming of Jesus, the Light of the world. As the star lights the sky leading the wisemen and foretelling the birth of the Messiah.Today we look forward, hearing once again the promise of God as we start our Advent journey.

Our first reading comes from the Prophet Isaiah as we read his great prophecy of the coming of the King.

Bible Passage: – Isaiah Chapter 9 Verses 1-2 and 6-7(NIV)

Nevertheless, there will be no more gloom for those who were in distress. In the past he humbled the land of Zebulun and the land of Naphtali, but in the future he will honor Galilee of the nations, by the Way of the Sea, beyond the Jordan

The people walking in darkness have seen a great light; on those living in the land of deep darkness a light has dawned….

For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders.And he will be called wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.

Of the greatness of his government and peace there will be no end. He will reign on David’s throne and over his kingdom, establishing and upholding it with justice and righteousness from that time on and forever. The zeal of the Lord Almighty will accomplish this.

Activity

As you go through the day keep a count of the number of “artificial” stars you see. Give thanks for the message they bring as you see each one.

On an A4 piece of paper draw as many different shapes of stars as you can. As you do so think of the many ways God speaks to us of the coming of Jesus.

On the paper, either front or back, jot down the things you would like God to reveal to you in this Advent season. Keep the paper so that you can refer back to it in the new year and see the blessings God has given you during this time of reflection.

Prayers and Reflection

Helpful Hymn

Singing the Faith – 175 “Light of the World”

Contemplation saying.

“The people walking in darkness have seen a great light”.

Let us pray together.

Contemplative Prayer.

Think of the saying in order to understand context and meaning, Feel the meaning of the saying with and in your heart,

Pray, using the saying, for yourself or others. With only a name and without explaining the reasons or pre-defining any answers.

Listen for God’s voice in the quiet of your prayers.

Pray using your own prayers or one of those which have been prepared below.

Twitter Prayer

Light of the world may you shine ever brightly in our lives. Help us to see you more clearly as we once again prepare for your coming into the world. Amen.

Facebook Prayer

Loving God we thank you for your Word to the Prophets so long ago. That they spoke words for their generation and yet words which still speak to us today.

We thank you for these words from Isaiah which we have heard so often but which never lose their power and meaning. May this season of Advent open my eyes to the light of your presence in my life. Amen.

Full Prayer

Spend a short time in reflecting on the times when God has shone brightly in your life through friends of family members.

In Jesus name we pray. Amen.