January 4-10, 2026
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, Thou King of nations bring/An end to all our suffering/Bid every pain and sorrow cease/And reign now as our Prince of Peace/Rejoice! Rejoice! Emmanuel/Rejoice! Rejoice! Emmanuel/Rejoice! Rejoice! Emmanuel/Shall come again with us to dwell
Day 1 - Jesus in the King of all Kings. Lord of all Lords. What area do you need to let Him reign over in your life? Read 1 Tim 6:11-15.
Day 2 - What does it mean that Jesus is the end to all suffering? Do you believe that? Why or why not? Tell Him. Read Luke 22:37 and Isaiah 53:12.
Day 3 - He is the Prince of Peace. In a world full of chaos, the one thing we need so desperately is peace. Read John 14:27.
Day 4 - Emmanuel - God with you. Take time to notice today where God is with you. Where do you see Him at work? Read Acts 17:27
Day 5 - We look forward to the day that Christ returns. Until then we wait but not without purpose. Read Philippians chapter 1 today. Search for the word “remain.” Why are we still here?
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.