December 7-13, 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, Emmanuel / And ransom captive Israel / That mourns in lonely exile here / Until the Son of God appear
Day 1: When you invite someone over, how do you prepare? Look up Hebrews 13:2 and meditate on it.
Day 2: What are some ways you celebrate being adopted into the family of God? How do you celebrate your freedom in Christ? Think of a few ways you can celebrate this week and plan them into your schedule.
Day 3: What do you do when you feel lonely? What habits do you turn to, both helpful and unhelpful? Read Ephesians 3:17 and reflect.
Day 4: What would you do if the Son of God appeared to you today? How do you imagine you would respond? Read Acts 9:3-6 and reflect.
Day 5: As you reflect on these lyrics, write a prayer that expresses your thoughts. You may want to play a version of the O Come Emmanuel song while you write.
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.