The Shape of True Love
Alicia Bruxvoort
“… God sent His only Son into the world so that we could find true life through Him. This is the embodiment of true love: not that we have loved God first, but that He loved us and sent His unique...
“For to us a child is born, to us a son is given; and the government shall be upon his shoulder, and his name shall be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.” Isaiah 9:6 (ESV)
“The woman saw that the tree was good for food and delightful to look at, and that it was desirable for obtaining wisdom. So she took some of its fruit and ate it; she also gave some to her husband, who was with her, and he ate it.” Genesis 3:6 (CSB)
Lord God, on this third Sunday of Advent, we rejoice in the nearness of Your coming. Fill our hearts with the joy that flows from knowing You and trusting in Your promises. Help us to carry that joy into the world, especially to those who are weary or burdened. May our lives reflect the light of Christ, shining with hope and compassion. We thank You for the gift of Your Son, our source of everlasting joy. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
“But the angel said to them, ‘Do not be afraid. I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people. Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is the Messiah, the Lord.’” Luke 2:10-11 (NIV)
“Catch for us the foxes, the little foxes that ruin the vineyards, our vineyards that are in bloom.” Song of Songs 2:15 (NIV)
“And Mary said, ‘Behold, I am the servant of the Lord; let it be to me according to your word.’ And the angel departed from her.” Luke 1:38 (ESV)
“Suddenly, the angel was joined by a vast host of others—the armies of heaven—praising God …” Luke 2:13 (NLT)
“… the God in whom he believed, who gives life to the dead and calls into existence the things that do not exist.” Romans 4:17 (ESV)
“So we do not lose heart. Though our outer self is wasting away, our inner self is being renewed day by day. For this light momentary affliction is preparing for us an eternal weight of glory beyond all comparison …” 2 Corinthians 4:16-17 (ESV)
Heavenly Father, as we enter this second Sunday of Advent, kindle within us the flame of peace that only Your presence can bring. Prepare our hearts to receive Christ with stillness and trust, even amid the noise of the world. May the light of the Advent candles remind us of Your enduring promises and faithful love. Help us to walk in Your ways, making room for hope to grow in our lives and the lives of others. We wait with joyful expectation for the coming of our Savior, Jesus Christ. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
“… God sent His only Son into the world so that we could find true life through Him. This is the embodiment of true love: not that we have loved God first, but that He loved us and sent His unique...
“Then they lifted up their voices and wept again. And Orpah kissed her mother-in-law, but Ruth clung to her.” Ruth 1:14 (ESV)
“The law of the Lᴏʀᴅ is perfect, reviving the soul; the testimony of the Lᴏʀᴅ is sure, making wise the simple; the precepts of the Lᴏʀᴅ are right, rejoicing the heart; the commandment of the Lᴏʀᴅ...
“But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.” Matthew 6:33 (NIV)