Introduction: For hundreds of years many Christian traditions have read passages of scripture using a tool called a lectionary. This Advent season our devotional team decided to resource you with selections from the Revised Common Lectionary. You will encounter texts from the Psalms, the Prophets, and the New Testament as well as formal prayers. Each text has been selected to build anticipation for the coming of Christ – the Light of the World – amid the dark, cold days of winter. Reflect on the first coming of Christ while yearning for his second coming.
Note. If you desire to read these passages in a different version of the Bible, this link will provide all the readings for week 2 in Bible Gateway where you may also choose other versions of these passages.)
Psalm 85:1-2, 8-13 NIV
You showed favor to your land, O LORD; you restored the fortunes of Jacob. You forgave the iniquity of your people and covered all their sins. Selah
I will listen to what God the LORD will say; he promises peace to his people, his saints–but let them not return to folly. Surely his salvation is near those who fear him, that his glory may dwell in our land.
Love and faithfulness meet together; righteousness and peace kiss each other. Faithfulness springs forth from the earth, and righteousness looks down from heaven. The LORD will indeed give what is good, and our land will yield its harvest. Righteousness goes before him and prepares the way for his steps.
Source: Year B – Advent : Revised Common Lectionary
The Lord is faithful. He fulfills His promises, ALWAYS. Thank the Lord for His faithfulness in your life. Remember how He has been faithful to you in the past, to your friends and to your family. Be assured, He will be faithful to you and to His promises in the future regardless of your current circumstances.
Use the prayer below or Psalm 85 above to pray to God and thank Him for His faithfulness in your life in the past and in the future.
God of hope,
you call us from the exile of our sin
with the good news of restoration;
you build a highway through the wilderness;
you come to us and bring us home.
Comfort us with the expectation of your saving power,
made known to us in Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.
