A Word about Presence
Advent proclaims Immanuel—God with us. Not far off, not absent, but here. Tonight we enter the mystery of a God who draws near, anchoring us in presence when the world feels uncertain and our souls long for assurance.
Pause
- Begin with a gentle inhale… and exhale.
- Notice your shoulders—are they lifted or heavy? Let them drop.
- Notice your hands—open them, unclench them, breathe.
- Bring attention to your jaw—soften, release.
- As you breathe, let peace rise within. Inhale peace, exhale unrest.
- Rest in God, the Rock eternal.
Ponder
While they were there, the time came for the baby to be born, and she gave birth to her firstborn, a son. She wrapped him in cloths and placed him in a manger, because there was no guest room available for them.
-Luke 2:6-7, NIV
For Your Consideration
- Take a moment to consider what Jesus’ manger means to you today….
- Consider how near or far you have felt God’s presence this past week, or, if you feel led, this past year.
- Ask God: How are You with us — with me — now?
- Take a few moments to just rest in God’s presence.
Pray
Immanuel, God with us,You dwell among us in the here and now.
You anchor our lives in your nearness.
Open our eyes to see you,
and our hearts to receive you, even in uncertain times.
In Jesus’ name, amen.
Practice
Go with the presence of Christ beside you.God with us in silence, in song, in story.
May you be anchored in the nearness of His love,
and may His presence guide you into the hope of Advent.