Transcription

 

[Roenz Balangue]

Welcome to Bridgeway Christian Church's Daily Advent Prayer. My name is Roenz Balangue, and I have been part of the Bridgeway community for four months. Today is Monday, December 8th, and today and every Monday during Advent, we will reflect on the anticipation of the Messiah in the Old Testament.

Today we meditate on the prophet Micah's anticipation of a coming shepherd king who would rise from humble Bethlehem to bring his people lasting peace through his righteous rule. Let's listen to Micah 5, verses 2 through 5 together. Therefore, he shall give them up until the time when she who is in labor has given birth.

Then the rest of his brothers shall return to the people of Israel. And he shall stand and shepherd his flock in the strength of the Lord, in the majesty of the name of the Lord his God. And they shall dwell secure, for now he shall be great to the ends of the earth, and he shall be their peace.

Micah proclaims the coming of God's true shepherd king, one who would bring security, wholeness, and peace, not only to Israel, but to the ends of the earth. Let's celebrate with Micah in prayer to our great God. Lord of peace and promise, you are the God who turns small places into holy ground.

From little Bethlehem, you brought forth the one who would shepherd his people and calm their fears. And when the world feels unsettled, teach us again to look to the shepherd who brings us true peace. When the nations rage and hearts are restless, remind us that your rule is righteous.

Your strength is steady and your reign will never end. Let your peace reign in our hearts, in our homes, and in our world. Make us people of reconciliation, those who sow calm where there is chaos, and kindness where there is division.

As we wait for your coming again, keep us secure in your love and confident in your promise that you, O Christ, are and always will be our shepherd and our peace. Amen.