Scripture
Hear us, Shepherd of Israel,
you who lead Joseph like a flock.
You who sit enthroned between the cherubim,
shine forth 2 before Ephraim, Benjamin and Manasseh.
Awaken your might;
come and save us.
3 Restore us, O God;
make your face shine on us,
that we may be saved.
4 How long, Lord God Almighty,
will your anger smolder
against the prayers of your people?
5 You have fed them with the bread of tears;
you have made them drink tears by the bowlful.
6 You have made us an object of derision to our neighbors,
and our enemies mock us.
7 Restore us, God Almighty;
make your face shine on us,
that we may be saved.
Reflection
This prayer has been answered and the Lord God Almighty has sent a shepherd. Jesus has come, that great Shepherd of the sheep. He will lead us in green pastures and beside still waters, he will restore our soul and in paths of righteousness. The one who has walked through the valley of the shadow of death and has passed to the other side, invites us to follow him; he knows the way.
For there is born to you this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord. And this will be the sign to you: You will find a Babe wrapped in swaddling cloths, lying in a manger.”
And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God and saying:
“Glory to God in the highest,
And on earth peace, goodwill toward men!” (Ps. Dale).
Thoughts for the day
- What does this passage tell you about Jesus and people?
- What do you feel God is telling you through this passage?
- Who can you share this passage with?
Prayer
Ask the Holy Spirit to help you create a space in your calendar and a place in your life for prayer. Where?
