Welcome to the first week in a five-part Advent series. The four weeks prior to Christmas are called Advent. Advent means “the coming” and refers to Jesus coming in the flesh 2000 years ago, and his promise to come again in the future. This Advent we invite each of you to give a gift to the Lord. It is also a gift to yourself!
Prepare Him Room: How it Works
Join us for an abbreviated read of our popular Military Bible Challenge. We selected five Scripture readings each week that point us toward our Savior Jesus Christ whose birth we are preparing to celebrate. Check out the readings below or follow us on social media as we post the readings each day!
Third Challenge Week:
Prophets & Poets: Learn about God’s ambassadors and liaisons between nations and discover the encouragements and prophecies that the Lord gives us in his Word.
Week three focuses on JOY. When Jesus was born, God the Father reached out to some shepherds with a birth announcement. He sent an angel to them who pronounced in part, “Fear not, for behold, I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all the people. For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord. (Luke 2: 10-11)
Joy and happiness are not the same thing. Happiness is a passing temporary emotion. Joy is an inner state of being. Why would the birth of Jesus be a source of great joy? Beyond the shepherds, to whom did God intend this good news of great joy? In what ways can others see the joy of the Lord in your life?
Over the next five days you are invited to learn more about God’s prophesies and promises as recorded in the Old Testament. You will read key sections from Poets and Prophets that will open your eyes to the faithfulness, love, and character of our Lord, and why these words brought joy to God’s people.
My Lord and my God, thank you for the gift of your son, and the joy he has brought into my life. Help me to share that joy with others that they may experience your Good News. Amen.
Selected Readings for this week:
Monday (Day 2): Mission Briefing (David talks to God and mentions the Messiah)
Tuesday (Day 5): Force Protection (The Warrior’s Psalm)
Wednesday (Day 11): Incoming Commander (a prophecy about the Messiah)
Thursday (Day 12): Relief in Place (a description of the Messiah)
Friday (Day 15): No Surrender (the faith of a POW)
Follow Along this Advent:
Keep up the good work. It’s easy to lose focus and be distracted during the Christmas season. Don’t forget to follow us on social media (Facebook or Instagram) for daily reading prompts and encouragement through the Advent season!
