Ponder These Things

Opening

Let's begin with a moment of silence, reminding ourselves that God's loving presence can be found wherever we happen to be.

Quote

“Mary was comparing these things which she had read were to occur with those which she recognized as already having occurred. Nevertheless, she did not bring these things forth from her mouth but kept them closed up in her heart.” -The Venerable Bede

Reflection

Do you have a private life with God? As we increasingly live every aspect of our lives on display, posted far and wide for the world to see, it becomes difficult to retain a hidden self, especially in a true and redemptive sense. We may be quick to hide things that cause us shame or guilt, yet do we know how to cultivate a life of holy silence and solitude, learning to hear the voice of God as we do?

With Christmas just a few days away, everything in your life is likely ramping up. Nothing about this week feels settled, calm, or quiet! Yet this final week of Advent invites us to resist that chaotic impulse toward anxious hurry and instead listen and reflect on the Word of God given to us.

As Mary cultivated the life of a faithful follower of God, including regular private prayer and devotion, she found herself present, attentive, and ready to receive the Word of God. Yet as this Word drew near, we see today that it left her disoriented, overcome by its weight and glory. What does she do? She ponders it in her heart (Luke 1:29; see also Luke 2:19). This Advent, the Lord draws near, speaking words of hope and love over his people. Resist the urge to fill the day with endless activities and external concerns, choosing instead to receive and prayerfully ponder the Word of God spoken to you.

Prayer

Purify our conscience, Almighty God, by your daily visitation, that your Son Jesus Christ, at his coming, may find in us a mansion prepared for himself; who lives and reigns with you, in the unity of the Holy Spirit, one God, now and for ever. Amen. (Book of Common Prayer, 1979)

Reflective Practice

As we enter this fourth and final week of Advent, each day brings its own unique practice, inviting us into heightened anticipation and preparation for the glory of Christmas Day.

Today, you are invited to ponder God’s word to you through silence and solitude, building on our practice from the first week. Today, seek out at least 5 minutes of uninterrupted and undistracted time with God: no people, no screens, no agenda. Simply be present to God and the work of the Spirit within you.

Closing

If you want to dive deeper and haven't yet done so, explore the Scripture passages for today's devotional. Remember that God's written word is often the place where his love shines most directly into our hearts and minds.

Go in peace, and let the word of Christ dwell in you richly.

Try Dwell

If you enjoyed this plan and would like to discover additional content from Dwell, click here to subscribe and begin your Dwell journey today!