Isaiah 42:6
Tuesday – 6 December 2022
Stop.
We will revisit a peaceful, reflective devotional practice this week. In this busy season, this pause could be very meaningful. You’ll need a timer, a quiet spot, and about ten minutes for devotions each day this week. Get what you need, take a deep breath, and prepare to hear from our upcoming preaching text.
Listen.
I am the Lord, I have called you in righteousness, I have taken you by the hand and kept you; I have given you as a covenant to the people, a light to the nations – Isaiah 42:6
Reflect.
We often use this devotional space to learn more about a text and find a way to connect it to our faith lives. This week, we’ll reflect on the text loosely using a process called Examen. This style of meditative, listening prayer invites you to reflect on the day and discern God’s leading through those events. For each devotion this week, you will get five questions to reflect on based on the verses you’ve read. Set your timer for two minutes to reflect on and pray about each question. Allow yourself to hear what God might be saying, even if all you hear is an invitation to be quiet and still:
The Prophet Isaiah relays to us God’s reminder: “I am the Lord”, offering that God has “taken you by the hand and kept you”. Reflecting on your day, where did you most closely feel God’s presence, as if God was indeed right by your side? Take time to thank God for these holy moments.
God furthermore says that we are to be “a covenant to the people, a light to the nations”. God has entrusted you with many gifts to be used for sharing God’s good news in Jesus. What are these gifts? How have you used them today? Spend time reflecting on God’s love and care for you in these gifts.
Even though we trust in God’s constant presence, we do not always notice it. Where have you struggled today? When have you felt alone or incapable? How can you invite God’s grace into these conflicts?
Thinking about your day, what’s one need, event, or question that you want to bring to God in prayer?
How will God’s promise to go with you and to give you what you need carry you into the next day? How can you commit to being a light to all?
Pray.
God, you are always ready to hear me and keep blessing me with your many gifts. Thank you for this day. Thank you for time to reflect on your presence in my life. Keep me aware and ready to hear and follow you, now and always. Amen.
Carry On.
How will you carry your awareness of being God’s light into your day? Your week? The season of Advent?