333 Tuesday (technically)....

These two Advent books sit on my desk so that last thing in the evening they're easy to find.  The David Adam one is just a short prayer for each day - sometimes from ancient liturgies and at other times from his own resources.  Today's has those wonderful phrases from the eighth century, ".... and because we are sorely let and hindered by our sins, let your bountiful grace and mercy speedily help and deliver us....".

Christmas by Candlelight has both bible passage and reflection.  This book is more useful in the morning when there's a day during which to think over the subject matter.  David Thomson follows the four Advent themes beginning with "The Patriarchs - Pointers of Promise" in this first week.  He then takes us through the Prophets, John the Baptist and in the fourth week, those around the crib.  

I like that fact that it also continues into the season of Epiphany with Jesus the light to the nations and in our lives ....   No doubt there'll be further references to it over the next six weeks.

In spite of all that must be done during this season there's got to be time to step aside and reflect ... 

Merciful Father and eternal Judge,

whose Son will come to bring to light

things hidden in darkness

and to reveal the secrets of all hearts;

by your grace make us trustworthy and true servants,

so that we may be found worthy of your praise

on the day of Jesus Christ.

The Promise of His Glory

Prayer 29 - for Advent