Remember the former things, those of long ago; I am God, and there is no other; I am God, and there is none like Me.

Isaiah 46:9

Thought

The seasons of the Church are, in many ways, tools for remembering. Advent, focusing on the coming Christ, can be a great antidote for forgetfulness. (Claire Musters)

1. In the bleak midwinter,
Frosty wind made moan,
Earth stood hard as iron,
Water like a stone;
Snow had fallen, snow on snow,
Snow on snow,
In the bleak midwinter, long ago.

2. Our God, heaven cannot hold Him,
Nor earth sustain;
Heaven and earth shall flee away
When He comes to reign.
In the bleak midwinter
A stable place sufficed
The Lord God Almighty, Jesus Christ.

3. Angels and Archangels
May have gathered there,
Cherubim and Seraphim
Thronged the air;
But His mother only,
In her maiden bliss,
Worshiped the Beloved with a kiss.

4. What can I give Him,
Poor as I am?
If I were a shepherd,
I would bring a lamb;
If I were a Wise Man,
I would do my part;
Yet what I can I give Him: give my heart.

Prayer

Merciful Father, Advent is more than remembering that Jesus came to earth. It is remembering the mystery of faith that is proclaimed among Your people. As we wait, we recall that Christ has died, is risen, and will come again. For all of this I am left in awe and offer You my gratitude. Amen.

Daily Readings

Isaiah 46, Isaiah 47, and Isaiah 48

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