Greetings from Concordia University, St. Paul, where we celebrate that God calls each of us by name and we are His as we live, learn, and serve together as a university community (Isaiah 43:1b).
The season of Advent is such an important time in the life of the church. Meaning “coming,” Advent is set aside as a time of preparation for the coming of Jesus. First, in the miracle of God becoming man through Jesus Christ’s incarnation; second, in the promise of His second coming as the King of kings and Lord of lords on the Last Day.
During this season, through worshipping with others and spending time in God’s Word and prayer, we reflect on our sin and need for a Savior. As we do so, we read and hear of the good news that Jesus, God in the flesh, came to live, die, and rise for all the people of the world. We are forgiven and set free to serve and live as His people until He comes again.
These devotions, written by some of CSP’s faculty and staff, are intended to be a resource for your personal devotions as you journey through the season of Advent through Christmas and Epiphany. I pray that you are blessed and refreshed by time in reflection, renewal, and prayer throughout this holy season.
Brian L. Friedrich
President
Concordia University, St. Paul
Advent Devotions
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By: Jane Wilke, B.A. ‘75, Director of Church Relations
“Stir up your might and come to save us! Restore us, O God; let your face shine, that we may be saved!” Psalm 80:2-3
“Come, Lord Jesus, be our guest” opens the common table prayer. It is an invitation for Jesus to dwell among us, even in the most ordinary of circumstances. In Psalm 80:2, “come” is more of a plea, a prayer for restoration and peace. It is a heartfelt cry for God to dwell among his people in the most difficult of circumstances.
“Come, Lord Jesus” is our prayer during Advent. Jesus—God’s own Son—is already among us. Sent by God the Father to be our saving grace, Jesus promises, “And behold, I will be with you always, even to the end of the age” (Matthew 28:20). It is a prayer that he will continue to dwell among us in both the ordinary and the difficult. “Come, Lord Jesus” to bless the gifts you’ve given us. “Come, Lord Jesus” to heal the hurting among us. “Come, Lord Jesus” to grant us your peace.
“Come, Lord Jesus” also happens to be the last words in the Bible: “’Surely, I am coming soon.’ Amen. Come, Lord Jesus!” (Revelation 22:20). It is our prayer of confidence, hope, and joyful expectation for his final return and ultimate restoration.
“Come, Lord Jesus!”
Prayer: Restore us, O God; let your face shine, that we may be saved. We pray in the name of Jesus. Amen.