"But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, God’s special possession, that you may declare the praises of him who called you out of darkness into his wonderful light."
- 1 Peter 2:9
Advent Day 7
December 3, 2022
The Most Precious Gift
Another year is speeding by. Advent is upon us, and we focus on preparing to celebrate Jesus’ birth. This has been another year of stress, strife, and sorrow in so many areas. I resist the feeling that I do not want to watch the daily news because too much of it is bad. I resist the temptation to withdraw from exposure to others’ pain so that I can detach from the need to help somehow.
As I reflect on Advent, I think about the goodness of God and the unmatched, unfathomable gift of God’s precious son who came to save a sinner like me. God gave this gift of love because God has chosen us as special possessions, part of God’s holy nation.
During this Advent, I want to focus on how to be more of a gift to God. As part of God’s holy nation, we are equipped to be brighter lights in doing God’s work on Earth. We cannot get weary in well doing. I need to do more to feed the hungry, clothe the naked and work unceasingly for the liberation of the oppressed. The Creator does not require grand gestures, but simple practical ways to show love to her people.
Steward Marie C. Johns
Pastor's Steward
Prayer: Dear Holy One - Thank you for life, new mercies each day and the unmatched gift of Jesus the Christ. Please plant in me a spirit of deeper humility, more fervent prayer and a closer relationship with you so that I might be a stronger, more effective citizen of your holy nation. In Jesus’ name I pray, AMEN
Advent 2022
We invite you to join us during the Advent season as we reflect on the virtues of Hope, Joy, Peace, and Love; as we anticipate Christ's birth; and prepare our hearts to receive him.
Each day a new reflection with a scripture and prayer will be posted on the Metropolitan AME Church website and social media to encourage you as we prepare.
Read along with us each day or download the book to read and reflect along with us offline.