Following the Star

Pause

In the midst of darkness we wait for you, O God.

You alone are our light and our hope.

Listen

Shepherd of Israel, listen! You, the one who leads Joseph as if he were a sheep. You, who are enthroned upon the winged heavenly creatures. Show yourself before Ephraim, Benjamin, and Manasseh! Wake up your power! Come to save us! Restore us, God! Make your face shine so that we can be saved!

Psalm 80:1-3

Think

There are times when the only way we can express our hope is to petition God. When life feels overwhelming, chaotic, or hopeless, the Psalmist reminds us that we can ask God for what we need:

Listen to me, God! Show up, God! I am finding it hard to hope because the world can be a dark place, and I need to see your face. I am waiting for you!

Advent is a season of waiting. That which we hope for may not come right when we ask for it, but God is faithful and has promised us salvation — being healed and made whole. God has heard our cries and shines brightly in the world through the face of Jesus. Look around you today. Where do you see God’s face shining brightly? Where do you see Jesus? Where do you see Hope?

Erendira Jimenez

Pray

O God of Hope, thank you for inviting me to share my heart with you. I am thankful that I can bring my petitions to you when things seem dark. Help me to wait for your salvation and hold tight to your promises today. Amen.

Go

May God’s face shine upon you.

May God’s hope bring you wholeness.

And may you walk this day towards the light of a small star.