Luke 2:1- 7

Prayer for the day:
God, we have domesticated you. In Jesus you came into the uncertainties of a young family, far from home, alone in a stable. We overlook that you came to an unwed mother, in the midst of an occupied people. Instead, we gather in comfortable homes and churches singing comforting songs all the while forgetting the cold night of Jesus’ birth. Help us, we pray, to recover the challenge of the incarnation. Help us recall that faithfulness was the measure for choosing Mary and Joseph, and not comfort in their current way of life. Amen

Question for reflection:
Do you still affirm the vows of your baptism? Are you at peace with those around you? What must you do to reclaim those vows and to live at peace with others? How does Jesus Christ challenge you beyond the comforts of your life to grow in faithfulness?

~ Josh Brockway, Director for Spiritual Life and Discipleship

Congregational Life Ministries of the Church of the Brethren is offering these simple prayers and questions in connection to this year’s Advent Devotional written by Tim Harvey, pastor of Central Church of the Brethren (Available from Brethren Press in print and E-Book formats). Join us as we look and listen for the coming of the Word through the reading of scripture, Tim’s reflections, times of prayer, and conversations on this blog.