The Advent prayer for Monday, December 19, 2002, comes to us from: Hark the Herald Angels Sing: Daily Prayers for Advent by Stephenie Hovland
7 “But now, Lord, what do I look for? My hope is in you.
Psalm 39:7 NIV
Friends,
To fully understand our cited verse, we need to look at the verses that precede it. Verses 4-6 state:
4 “Show me, LORD, my life’s end and the number of my days; let me know how fleeting my life is. 5 You have made my days a mere handbreadth; the span of my years is as nothing before you. Everyone is but a breath, even those who seem secure. 6 “Surely everyone goes around like a mere phantom; in vain they rush about, heaping up wealth without knowing whose it will finally be.
The Psalmist is taking a moment to reflect upon their limited ability to determine the course of their life. The Psalmist realizes that they need to lean on God, whose unlimited grace and joy are essential for providing balance to their life. As people of faith, we too look to God for guidance and grounding, recognizing that the peace of God is crucial in helping us navigate the uncertainties of life. I invite each of you to seek the peace of God, that you may in turn offer it to those who find themselves buffeted by the billows of life.
-Pastor Anthony
Advent Prayer – Day 23
Heavenly Father, we confess that we sometimes have desolate thoughts. We sometimes doubt your plans. We may even wonder or wish that we’d never been born. Father, forgive us for losing our hope in you. Remind us to put our faith in your hope and salvation. You will hear our desperate cries and be our comfort. Look upon your children today, and give us your peace. Remind us that you love us dearly. Amen.
-Stephenie Hovland