Next Sunday begins the second week of Advent. Each week is designed to move the believer to a place of expectancy. The Messiah came into this world once which ought to solidify our faith in his return. The readings are also intended to invoke a spirit of anticipation, for while the Messiah returns as Judge we are assured of our escaping judgment through our faith in Him. Finally, the season as a whole is to move us to a place of preparation, preparing our lives and our being for the joyous return of our God and savior Jesus.

I’m finding the daily readings are helping me to focus on the reason for the season instead of on the shopping deals and over-crowded malls. If that sounds like something you could enjoy but haven’t been following the readings this week, it’s not too late to start. Go out and buy five candles and get started this Sunday.

Second Week of Advent

The second candle represents prophesies concerning the Messiah’s first coming and is referred to as “The Way of the Prophets”, or simply “Bethlehem” (due to Micah 5.2).

Sunday Romans 15.4-13

Monday Psalms 43.3-6

Tuesday Psalms 27.1-4

Wednesday Psalms 119.105-106

Thursday John 12.35-36

Friday Ephesians 5.6-14

Saturday 1 Peter 2.5-9

We will publish the next weeks readings every Thursday to give you time to prepare any other traditions you may want to begin or keep.