Jesus Sustains and Defines Us
Today’s Advent Bible Verses:
Luke 12:23 ESV
For life is more than food, and the body more than clothing.
During Advent, our culture often tempts us to focus on material things—lavish feasts, perfect gifts, and stylish outfits for parties and the like. While these pursuits can be enjoyable, they can overshadow the deeper purpose of this sacred time: preparing our hearts for the arrival of Christ.
In Luke 12:23, Jesus reminds us that life is more than food and the body more than clothing. These words invite us to pause and consider what truly sustains and defines us. Is it the fleeting pleasures of this world, or is it the eternal hope and joy found in Jesus?
Advent calls us to shift our perspective. The decorations and traditions are beautiful, but they are meant to point us to something greater: the miracle of Emmanuel, “God with us.” As we prepare for Christmas, let’s not become so consumed by the outward trappings of the season that we neglect the nourishment of our souls.
Jesus offers a peace that material things cannot provide. He invites us to trust Him, knowing He will provide what we need. The One who fed the 5,000 and clothed the lilies of the field is the same Savior who came to redeem us.
Prayers
A Prayer for Today:
Gracious God, during this Advent season, help us to remember that life is more than food, and the body is more than clothing. Teach us to seek Your kingdom above all else, trusting that You will provide for our needs. May we find joy and contentment in Your presence and share Your love with others. In Jesus’ name, I pray. Amen.
Apostles’ Creed:
I believe in God, the Father Almighty, maker of heaven and earth.
And in Jesus Christ, His only Son, our Lord, who was conceived by the Holy Spirit, born of the virgin Mary, suffered under Pontius Pilate, was crucified, died and was buried. He descended into hell. The third day He rose again from the dead. He ascended into heaven and sits at the right hand of God the Father Almighty. From thence He will come to judge the living and the dead.
I believe in the Holy Spirit, the holy Christian Church, the communion of saints, the forgiveness of sins, the resurrection of the body, and the life everlasting. Amen.
The Lord’s Prayer:
Our Father who art in heaven, hallowed be Thy name, Thy kingdom come, Thy will be done on earth as it is in heaven; give us this day our daily bread; and forgive us our trespasses as we forgive those who trespass against us; and lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. For Thine is the kingdom and the power and the glory forever and ever. Amen.
Luther’s Morning Prayer:
I thank You, my heavenly Father, through Jesus Christ, Your dear Son, that You have kept me this night from all harm and danger; and I pray that You would keep me this day also from sin and every evil, that all my doings and life may please You. For into Your hands, I commend myself, my body and soul, and all things. Let Your holy angel be with me, that the evil foe may have no power over me. Amen.
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