As I write this it is still dark out. I woke up like I was walking into an action movie in the middle – my mind spinning like a kick boxer doing a roundhouse (not sure how I know that!). As I drove first to Starbucks and then to my little “office” I thought how preoccupied my mind is with “to do’s” and how much I long to be preoccupied with Jesus.
This is one reason why I love being outside in the morning when it’s still dark, the stars quiet, and sure. It reminds me of the bigger story – the one that shrinks the to-do list in my pocket. The expansive night sky helps me right-size. God keeps the world spinning while we sleep – amazing. It reminds me of my smallness in a good way.
Part of the process every Advent of creating space for Jesus to be formed in me is focusing on His names from Isaiah 9:6. It’s another way of trying to “right-size”.
Which of these names do you need to be reminded of most this Advent season?
Might you make time this weekend for a walk outside in the dark to reflect on these?
Wonderful Counselor
Psalm 73:23-24 Yet I am always with you; you hold me by my right hand. You guide me with your counsel…
John 14:26 But the Advocate, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, will teach you all things and will remind you of everything I have said to you.
Mighty God
Psalm 62:7-8 My salvation and my honor depend on God;
he is my mighty rock, my refuge.
Trust in him at all times, you people;
pour out your hearts to him,
for God is our refuge.
Isaiah 40:26 Lift up your eyes and look to the heavens:
Who created all these?
He who brings out the starry host one by one,
and calls them each by name.
Because of his great power and mighty strength,
not one of them is missing.
Everlasting Father
Psalm 68:5 A father to the fatherless, a defender of widows, is God in his holy dwelling.
Romans 8:15 The Spirit you received does not make you slaves, so that you live in fear again; rather, the Spirit you received brought about your adoption to sonship. And by him we cry, “Abba, Father.”
Prince of Peace
Isaiah 26:3 You will keep in perfect peace those whose minds are steadfast, because they trust in you.
Philippians 4:6-7 Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.
