January 08, 2007

I. Readings
Psalms 5, 29, 82
Isaiah 40:12-24
Ephesians 1:1-14
Mark 1:1-13

II. Selections
Psalm 29:11
May the LORD give strength to his people!
May the LORD bless his people with peace!

Isaiah 40:24
Scarcely are [ the rulers of the earth] planted, scarcely sown,
scarcely has their stem taken root in the earth,
when he blows upon them, and they wither,
and the tempest carries them off like stubble.

Ephesians 1:3
Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who has blessed us in Christ with every spiritual blessing in the heavenly places ...

Mark 1:2
As it is written in the prophet Isaiah,
"See, I am sending my messenger ahead of you,
who will prepare your way ... "

III. Meditation: Bless your people with peace.

God and Father of our Lord, Jesus Christ,
you have blessed us in Christ
with every spiritual blessing
in the heavenly places;
and you prepare the way
to work your will on earth.

Our earthly rulers seem all powerful,
but you blow your breath upon them,
and they wither and disappear.
Frustrate their plans for war-
give strength to your people;
bless your people with peace.