Words of the Saints to Ponder While Journeying Toward Bethlehem

Earlier this year, I prayed for the wisdom, courage, and knowledge to write an Advent devotional to help prepare me for the coming of my Christmas Miracle. Who could lead a hand leading me along this path through Advent?

I prayed and tried to listen to what God wanted me to do. One day while out walking, I heard a tiny whisper, “The Saints.”

I have always had a yearning to know more about the lives of saints. Even in grade school, my mom and dad allowed me to join a Saint-of-the-Month book club. Monthly, I received in the mail a hard-covered book on the Lives of the Saints. I read about St. Theresa, St. Francis, St. Patrick, and many others.

A few weeks later, I was asked to do a PowerPoint presentation on saints for our Confirmation class at church. I eagerly said, “Yes.”

A week later, a priest friend called and asked me if I knew if a particular saint was responsible for a quote he wanted to use. I was surprised and humbled to think he would ask me.

Sometimes, I am slow to hear what God is trying to tell me. Again I heard a tiny whisper, “The Saints.” I began my research and learned what many saints said about the birth of Jesus. I think God must laugh at my worries, this time my worry was would I find enough quotes for each of the 28 days of Advent? I was surprised at how quickly those worries were wiped away. I researched what was needed for a useful Advent devotional. Devotionals I have enjoyed have incorporated, Bible verses, inspired words, reflections, prayers, artwork, and sometimes even music. I have tried to include all these items to help me along this Advent season.

Thank you for joining me and the saints on this Advent journey to the meeting of our Christmas Miracle.

Sunday 11-28-2021 The First Sunday of Advent

Isaiah (8th century BCE)

Prophet Isaiah ben Amoz lived during the Babylonian Captivity

Son of Amoz, Member of the Tribe of Judah, Court Preacher, Political and Religious Counselor to the Leaders.

“For to us a child is born, to us a son is given…”

Prayer:

Dear Lord, We were hoping, praying, and expecting a mighty king, strong warrior, powerful political ruler to come to the world and save us. Instead, you knew best. You knew we needed a baby born of a tired, poor couple birthed in a cave to become our Redeemer, Savior, and King by being ransomed for our sins. Beloved Christmas Miracle, save me, I wait and long for your coming.

Music:

O come, O come, Immanuel,
and ransom captive Israel
that mourns in lonely exile here
until the Son of God appear.

Refrain:
Rejoice! Rejoice! Immanuel
shall come to you, O Israel.