The Advent prayer for Sunday, December 4, 2002, comes to us from: Hark the Herald Angels Sing: Daily Prayers for Advent by Stephenie Hovland
11 For he will command his angels concerning you to guard you in all your ways.
Psalm 91:11 NRSV
Friends,
Psalm 91:11 has the unique distinction of being quoted by the devil, in Luke 4, in the temptation of Jesus:
9 Then the devil took him to Jerusalem, and placed him on the pinnacle of the temple, saying to him, "If you are the Son of God, throw yourself down from here,10 for it is written, "He will command his angels concerning you, to protect you,' 11 and "On their hands they will bear you up, so that you will not dash your foot against a stone.' "12 Jesus answered him, "It is said, "Do not put the Lord your God to the test.' "
Luke 4:9-12 NRSV
The devil attempts to persuade Jesus to harm himself by misinterpreting Psalm 91:11. The devil hoped to mislead Jesus, believing Jesus might not be well versed, nor well studied. To his disappointment and dismay, Jesus was fully aware of his attempts at deception. As people of faith, being well-versed and knowledgeable of scripture is essential for our spiritual maturity. Our reading and study of scripture allows God to speak to our hearts, encouraging us and equipping us to navigate all life’s situations. As our understanding of scripture grows, so too does our ability to discern when someone is misinterpreting. May we find time, each day, to allow God to speak to us as we read scripture.
--Pastor Anthony
Advent Prayer – Day 8
Gracious God, we are often foolish and could cause harm to ourselves and others. Thank you for saving us from death and evil by sending your guardian angels. We don’t know how many times you’ve spared us, but we are thankful for every time your angels have guarded our ways. Remind us not to test your angels or your will, but please continue to direct your angels to watch and protect us. Amen.
-Stephenie Hovland