What I’m listening to: Sleigh Ride by Ella Fitzgerald 

Today is Day 2 of our continuing Advent Reading series! If you missed the first post, go ahead and check it out, it also explains a little more. If you’re all up to speed already, welcome back! Without further ado, let’s dive in. 

 In the sixth month of Elizabeth’s pregnancy, God sent the angel Gabriel to Nazareth, a town in Galilee, to a virgin pledged to be married to a man named Joseph, a descendant of David. The virgin’s name was Mary. The angel went to her and said, “Greetings, you who are highly favored! The Lord is with you.” 

                        Luke 1:26-28 (NIV)

Have you ever received a suprise reminder that God loves you? It could be something small, like a beautiful evening outside after a stressful day; or it could be something huge, like the joy in finding out a family member has recovered after a long bout with an illness. In these verses from Luke, she is told by an angel of God’s favor for her. At this point, unlike most of us reading the Christmas story, she has no idea what the Angel is about to tell her. What many of us don’t realize is that we are also favored in God’s sight. He sent his son to die for each and every one of us. You find favor in his sight even at your lowest point. These verses encourage us to trust in God’s unfailing love and favor for us. 

Prayer Prompt: Pray for guidance from the Lord to show you the plan that He has prepared for you, His loved and favored child.