Drawing Near
*See below for General Instructions
Sermon and Lectionary January 3
2nd Sunday of Christmas
God Gives Light to All Humanity
Simeon prophesies over Jesus saying he will be “a light for revelation to the Gentiles.” How does Christ reveal himself to the world? To you personally? What has Jesus Christ revealed to you about himself this past Advent? Reflect on and pray the prayer “Draw Me to Yourself” (p. 16 of the Near Resource booklet) and think about making that a prayer for this new year ahead.
Jeremiah continues the theme of God saving Israel. What are some themes that you see about how God “saves”? Which are most meaningful to your right now? What are some of the ways you have experienced God’s grace and God’s “saving” during this Advent season? Write a prayer to God as you look forward with expectation to the new year.
The psalmist writes about God’s saving graces. Where in your life do you need God’s strength, blessing, and/or peace? Where are those needed in the world around you? Read the thoughts about Scriptural Prayers at the top of page 6 of the Near Resource booklet. Try praying today’s passage as described there.
Paul writes about the spiritual blessings we receive from God through Jesus Christ. What blessings does he list and which are most meaningful to you right now? What does v10b mean to you, “to bring all things in heaven, and on earth together under one head, even Christ?” How can you bring God’s light and promise to others? Conclude your time of reflection today by reading Ted Loder’s prayer found on page 15 or the Near Resource booklet, “Remind Me of Your Steady Power.”
John 1:18 says, “No one has ever seen God. It is God the only Son, who is close to the Father’s heart, who has made him known.” What do you see in this passage about Jesus that helps us know God? What does Jesus’ character and actions throughout his life reveal to you about God who we can’t see? Sing or pray the song, “Open My Eyes, that I May See” on p. 19 of the Near Resource Booklet as you seek to grow in awareness of how God is near to you--speaking, comforting, and guiding.