Readings for the Day:
Isaiah 7:10-16: An Israelite and Aramean military coalition presented a serious threat to King Ahaz of Judah. In response, Aha decided to secure his throne and kingdom by seeking Assyrian help. Isaiah reminds Ahaz that human attempts to establish security will fail. The prophet gives the sign that is the only source of true safety: Immanuel, God is with us!
Romans 1:1-7: Most of the Christians in Rome do not know Paul. In this letter’s opening he introduces himself as an apostle divinely appointed to spread God’s gospel. The gospel’s content is the promised coming of Christ, and Paul’s mission is to bring about the obedience of faith among all nations, including his Roman audience.
Matthew 1:18-25: Matthew’s story of Jesus’ birth focuses on the role of Joseph, who adopts the divinely-begotten child into the family of David and obediently gives him the name Jesus, which means ‘God saves.’
‘From Sunday & Seasons, copyright 2025 Augsburg Fortress’
Questions To Ponder:
1— How is God offering your community guidance and grace right now? (Isaiah 7:10-16)
2—How might God be inviting you to notice, pray for, or welcome our neighbors? (Romans 1:1-7)
3—What could the Holy Spirit, through the story of Joseph and his excessive, outrageous generosity, be inviting you to risk this Christmas? (Matthew 1:18-25)
4—How do these texts speak to you today?
Prayer: Stir up your power, Lord Christ, and come. With your abundant grace and might, free us from the sin that hinders our faith, that eagerly we may receive your promises. Amen.