“After Jesus was born in Bethlehem in Judea, during the time of King Herod, Magi from the east came to Jerusalem 2 and asked, “Where is the one who has been born king of the Jews? We saw his star when it rose and have come to worship him.”” Matthew 2:1-2 NIV
God who guides,
We worship You, God of glory. Lord of Creation, history and time. The God we cannot fully comprehend or imagine in Your magnificence. Who created a tiny planet in a tiny part of a limitless universe to be inhabited by the bit of creation you called good, mankind. Made in Your image but with freedom to choose! Godly or selfish. And don’t we just. You knew but didn’t give up on us and sent Your Son. Knowing we would kill Him. But death had no power over Him.
The Magi from the East, would have been travelling some time and we do not know when they arrived. Could have been up to 2 years after Jesus birth. They based all their understanding on an amazing new star. They brought perfect expensive and specific gifts. Surely a miracle. Ok they were distracted, went to Jerusalem first and it could have been a disaster . . . but for You, God.
We are just not capable of getting it right all the time. Evil is here and detours are needed. Help us to be wise and seek You for the detours to avoid evil. What to do and what not to do. We wonder that You love us so much. Help us to hear Your reassuring voice today. Lead us beside still waters. Restore our souls and lead us in paths of righteousness for Jesus sake.” (Psalm 23:2,3).
In Jesus loving name we pray, Amen.
Suggestions for prayer . . .
God who provides,
For our family, friends, neighbours, those we promised to pray for.
For our Christian family. Christmas services and meals planned.
For our king and His family and all those in authority (1 Timothy 2:2).
For our Government and for peace in our nation in this season.
For Ukraine and Russia. A miraculous end to war.
For Sudan to get a stable good Government, all areas of conflict in the Middle East to know peace.
For those finding plans disrupted or delayed. Your way forward and peace.
For those held captive by phobias, guilt, shame, low self esteem, worry. Bless them with freedom.
For those who have time to listen on help lines or over a cup of tea. Put a prayer on their lips.
For us to not let the enemy distract us. To be able to see where and to who You are leading us.
In Jesus powerful name we pray, Amen.
Worship Saturday 21st December 2024
William was the manager of a maritime insurance company in Glasgow. At the age of 29 he was struck with a near fatal illness and consequently suffered months confined to his bed. During this time he became severely depressed. Yet it is from this period that many of his hymns date. He lived to 61 years old.
As with gladness men of old
did the guiding star behold,
as with joy they hailed its light,
leading onward, beaming bright;
so, most gracious God, may we
evermore be led to thee.
As with joyful steps they sped,
Savior, to thy lowly bed,
there to bend the knee before
thee whom heaven and earth adore;
so may we with willing feet
ever seek thy mercy seat.
As they offered gifts most rare
at thy cradle rude and bare,
so may we with holy joy,
pure and free from sin’s alloy,
all our costliest treasures bring,
Christ, to thee, our heavenly king.
Holy Jesus, every day
keep us in the narrow way,
and, when earthly things are past,
bring our ransomed souls at last
where they need no star to guide,
where no clouds thy glory hide.
In the heav’nly country bright
need they no created light;
thou its light, its joy, its crown,
thou its sun which goes not down.
There forever may we sing
alleluias to our King!
William Chatterton Dix