Advent Devotional - Day 15

Sunday, December 13
The Third Sunday of Advent

Every Sunday during Advent we invite you to join us in lighting an Advent wreath in your home. These wreaths can be elaborate parts of your Christmas decor, or they can simply be four candles gathered from around the house (Pinterest is full of inspiration).

Traditionally, many families light their Advent candle at dinnertime or during an evening quiet time. Each week another candle is lit to mark time and bring more light as Christmas draws nearer.

As you light your wreath consider these words...
[Light the first and second candles of the Advent wreath.]

If Jesus comes to us again at Christmas this year, and if Jesus dwells within each of us, shouldn’t that make a difference in who we are and how we live our lives? Hear these words from First Thessalonians:

“Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.

“Do not quench the Spirit. Do not despise the words of the prophets, but test everything; hold fast to what is good; abstain from every form of evil.

“May the God of peace himself sanctify you entirely; and may your spirit and soul and body be kept sound and blameless at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ.

“The one who calls you is faithful, and he will do this.” (1 Thessalonians 5:16-24, NRSV.)

If we seek Jesus, who is born in the manger, shouldn’t we: …be at peace among ourselves?
…help the weak and the poor?
…not repay evil for evil, but always do good to one another?
…in all circumstances, give thanks?

[Light the third candle of the Advent wreath.]

As we light this third candle, let us remember that this is the will of God in Christ Jesus, who comes to us.

Come, Lord Jesus. Amen

Adapted from umcdiscipleship.com