Fourth Sunday of Advent, December 23, 2018 
May We be Servants of the Lord 
by Pastor Tracy Paschke-Johannes
Then Mary said, "Here am I, the servant of the Lord; let it be with me according to your word." Then the angel departed from her.

Luke 1:38
The passage for today is traditionally known as "The Magnificat" and details Mary's servant-filled spirit as she prepares to bear the Christ Child. Mary's prayer recognizes the transformation and transitions that will come from Emmanuel's arrival in the world - and she is a part of this magnificent story. Mary names her role as "servant of my God," welcoming the opportunity to serve and live into God's abundant hope and promise for all people.
As we read and reflect on Mary's servant heart, we are reminded of God's call to us to serve and bring forth Emmanuel's presence deeper into our lives and the world. Living as members of the Body of Christ, we too bear the good news, Emmanuel, God is with us, in this and in every season. Let us reflect upon Mary's servant heart as we prepare ourselves for the coming of the Christ Child, and our role in announcing his presence to all those we encounter.
For some, the holiday season is heavy: The loss of a loved one. Reminders of broken family relationships as Christmas dinner seats remain empty at our dining room tables. Physical illness and the very real challenges of anxiety and depression can make this season difficult, if not downright painful. If this is your reality this season, know that Emmanuel is fully with you. If the flood of responsibilities in this time feel too much, allow God's grace to flood over you with hope and peace. Wherever your mind, body and spirit are this Christmas season, may you know the Spirit of the Lord is upon you, bringing good news of great joy to you.
May God's presence be unmistakable to you this holiday season.
Prayer: 
Lord God, may we have servants hearts as Mary, living our lives in love, making Emmanuel known in the world. Comfort all who are hurting this season, knowing you hold us in the palm of your hand. Amen.
FOURTH SUNDAY OF ADVENT: LOVE

Light Four Candles
And he shall stand and feed his flock in the strength of the Lord, in the majesty of the name of the Lord his God.
 --Micah 5:4

Prepare! 
Jesus wants us to eagerly await Him. Spend some time in prayer in the days ahead.
If you would like to invite a friend or family member to receive Epiphany's Daily Advent Devotions via email, forward this email and have them click here to sign up.
Like us on Facebook
www.epiphanydayton.org | 937-433-1449 | epiphany@epiphanydayton.org