First Tuesday Advent
Daily Advent Readings & Meditation
December 5, 2023
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Today’s Texts:
Isaiah 12:2-6: A song of praise for God’s salvation and comfort.
Luke 1:46-55: Mary’s Magnificat, expressing joy in God’s blessings.

Isaiah 12:2-6
Surely God is my salvation; I will trust, and will not be afraid, for the Lord God is my strength and my might; he has become my salvation. With joy you will draw water from the wells of salvation.

And you will say in that day: Give thanks to the Lord, call on his name; make known his deeds among the nations; proclaim that his name is exalted. Sing praises to the Lord, for he has done gloriously; let this be known in all the earth. Shout aloud and sing for joy, O royal Zion, for great in your midst is the Holy One of Israel.

Luke 1:46-55
And Mary said, “My soul magnifies the Lord, and my spirit rejoices in God my Savior, for he has looked with favor on the lowliness of his servant. Surely, from now on all generations will call me blessed; for the Mighty One has done great things for me, and holy is his name. His mercy is for those who fear him from generation to generation. He has shown strength with his arm; he has scattered the proud in the thoughts of their hearts. He has brought down the powerful from their thrones, and lifted up the lowly; he has filled the hungry with good things, and sent the rich away empty. He has helped his servant Israel, in remembrance of his mercy, according to the promise he made to our ancestors, to Abraham and to his descendants forever.”

Today’s Meditation:
In Isaiah’s song, we’re embraced by a powerful affirmation of trust in God’s deliverance. It’s a vibrant celebration of the strength and solace that comes from the Divine, a poignant reminder that where faith thrives, fear finds no foothold. Mirroring this sentiment, Mary’s Magnificat is a symphony of joy, a testament to the wonders and mercy of God. These sacred words draw us into a realm of thankfulness and joy, even amidst the complexities that weave through our lives. They beckon us to look beyond our immediate challenges, to recognize the vast expanse of God’s grace and care intricately woven into our existence. Today, let’s lift our spirits in gratitude, acknowledging the myriad ways we are blessed and sustained.

Something to Think and Pray About:

• In what aspects of your life can you find reasons to be grateful and joyful, even when challenges arise?
• How can Mary’s example of humility and gratitude inspire you in your own journey?

A Prayer For Today:
Holy and merciful God, as we reflect on the messages of Isaiah and Mary, fill our hearts with gratitude and joy. Help us to trust in Your salvation and to find strength in Your endless mercy. May our lives be a song of thanksgiving, celebrating Your love and care in every moment. Amen.