December 21-27, 2025
As we enter a season of Advent, it is always a time of anticipation and expectation. We look forward to sweet moments with family and friends. We hope for closeness and deeper connection with those around us. We desire celebrations that are memorable and meaningful.
Sometimes though, things are not at all what we expect.
During this time of year, we sing Christmas carols to remind ourselves that our hearts belong to Christ. He is the center of all that we hope for in this life and for eternity. Here, we can only long for His return. We can look to Him to mend our hardships and losses. But, we won’t see everything repaired and renewed until His return. Alas, we wait for His second coming.
The song O Come Emmanuel gives us meaningful ideas to reflect on in its lyrics. This song is written to be sung in a minor key traditionally reflecting a song of lament. Over the next few weeks, we will look more closely at those words and what they point us to. We will anchor our reflections in Scriptures that connect and flow with the lyrics. During the next few weeks, we will practice the voice of lament for those things we are waiting on and anticipating.
This week's focus: O come, O come, true prophet of the Lord/ And turn the key to heaven’s door/ Be Thou our comforter and guide/ And lead us to the Father’s side/ Rejoice! Rejoice! Emmanuel/ Shall by His word our darkness dispel
Day 1: Look up the word prophet and study the meaning. What do you find? Compare that definition to what you know of Jesus. Read John 6:14-15.
Day 2: Go read Revelation 1:17-18. What is Jesus’ job in Heaven?
Day 3: What comfort do you need today? Ask Him. Read 2 Cor 1:3-5.
Day 4: What guidance do you need today? Ask Him. Read Psalm 32:8.
Day 5: As you take time in prayer today, ask Jesus to shed light on the dark areas of your life - past memories, hurts, relationship struggles, financial burdens. Invite the Light of the World in to oversee those dark corners. Read Psalm 139:11-12.
Prayer Prompts and Bible Readings are provided by Michele Bowden and Lisa Brass, Coaches with Visual Faith™ Ministry. Find them on our Creative Devotion page, on Instagram @victoryinart and @aworthylif, and on the web at victoryinart.com.