Advent Week 1: The Promise of Incarnation

Read:
Isaiah 9:1-7

Reflect:
1. In what ways do you see a stark contrast between the government of Isaiah's child king and the kingdoms of this world?

2. Wonderful Counselor. Mighty God. Everlasting Father. Prince of Peace. As you reflect on the meaning of these four titles of the child-king, how is Jesus the specific answer to a darkness you are facing right now?

3. "His authority shall grow continually, and there shall be endless peace for the throne of David and his kingdom." What questions, feelings, or reflections do you have about the promise of a kingdom with no end? Share those with God in prayer.

4. How does “the zeal of the Lord” transform the way you face the darkness of this world?

5. How does the promise of the Incarnate Son of God impact the way you enter this season of Advent?

Pray:
Almighty God, give us grace to cast away the works of darkness, and put on the armor of light, now in the time of this mortal life in which your Son Jesus Christ came to visit us in great humility; that in the last day, when he shall come again in his glorious majesty to judge both the living and the dead, we may rise to the life immortal; through him who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and for ever. Amen. (Book of Common Prayer)

Special thanks to Alex Wenig, Director of Music at Oaks Parish, for her contribution of music to the podcast! From “Offering” © Alexandra Adkins, 2011: Sonata For 2 Violins In D Major, Op. 3, No. 6: III. Largo (Jean-Marie Leclair, 18th century).