Wondering
Dec. 21-28:
Prophetic living is watching, waiting, and walking with God. It can feel exhausting, but this week reminds us we’re not doing it alone. God’s Story is unfolding all around us in countless ways, and that truth gives us space to pause and marvel at His presence. The real miracle in Isaiah and Matthew isn’t just the virgin birth, it’s the promise that God is with us, moving from a sign in Isaiah to the flesh-and-blood reality of Jesus our Saviour in Matthew. That presence changes everything, offering hope and strength when the journey feels heavy and inviting us to live with wonder at the God who walks with us in our faith journey.
There are 5 days of devotions each week to recognize that you might have other commitments… or maybe you are like me and miss now and again. Download a printable version of Week 4
Day 1: The Promise of Presence
Scripture: Isaiah 7:14-16
Reflection: In a time of fear and uncertainty, God gave Ahaz a sign: “Immanuel, God with us.” The miracle is not in the details of the sign but in the promise that God is present and faithful.
Prayer: Lord, remind me today that You are with me in every circumstance.
Action: Pause three times today to whisper, “God is with me.”
Journaling Prompt:
Where do I need to feel God’s presence most right now?
How does knowing God is with me change my outlook?
Day 2: From Sign to Incarnation
Scripture: Matthew 1:22-23
Reflection: Isaiah’s sign becomes reality in Jesus, fully human and fully God. This is the ultimate expression of God’s presence. Advent invites us to marvel at this wonder.
Prayer: Lord, thank You for coming near in Jesus. Help me live aware of Your presence.
Action: Spend five minutes in silence, imagining Jesus walking beside you today.
Journaling Prompt:
What does it mean to me that Jesus took on flesh?
How can I experience Jesus’ presence in my daily life?
Day 3: God at Work All Around
Scripture: Matthew 1:18–21
Reflection: Joseph learns that God is already at work, bringing salvation through Jesus. We are not alone in Kingdom work; God is moving in countless ways all around us.
Prayer: Lord, open my eyes to see Your work in my community today.
Action: Look for one sign of the Holy Spirit’s activity around you and thank Him for it.
Journaling Prompt:
Where have I seen the Holy Spirit working recently?
How does that encourage me in my own calling?
Day 4: Awe and Wonder
Scripture: Isaiah 7:10-13
Reflection: God invites Ahaz to ask for a sign, a bold reminder that God delights in revealing His presence. Wonder is a spiritual discipline that renews hope and joy.
Prayer: Lord, restore my sense of awe at Your goodness and nearness.
Action: Take a photo of something beautiful today and thank God for it.
Journaling Prompt:
What fills me with wonder about God right now?
How can I cultivate awe in my daily routine?
Day 5: Living “God With Us”
Scripture: Matthew 1:24–25
Reflection: Joseph responds with obedience, embracing the reality of “God with us.” Our calling is to embody that presence; in our relationships, our workplace, our community... to embody it everywhere.
Prayer: Lord, help me reflect Your presence to others today.
Action: Do one tangible act of kindness that shows God’s love.
Journaling Prompt:
How can I be a sign of God’s presence to someone today?
What does living “God with us” look like in my community?