Hebrews 11:11-12
“By faith Abraham, even though he was past age—and Sarah herself was barren—was enabled to become a father because he considered him faithful who had made the promise.  And so from this one man, and he as good as dead, came descendants as numerous as the stars in the sky and as countless as the sand on the seashore.”

Luke 2:25-28
“Now there was a man in Jerusalem called Simeon, who was righteous and devout.  He was waiting for the consolation of Israel, and the Holy Spirit was upon him.  It had been revealed to him by the Holy Spirit that he would not die before he had seen the Lord’s Christ.  Moved by the Spirit, he went into the temple courts.  When the parents brought in the child Jesus to do for him what the custom of the Law required, Simeon took him in his arms and praised God…”

Isaiah 40:29-31a
“He gives strength to the weary and increases the power of the weak.  Even youths grow tired and weary, and young men stumble and fall; but those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength.”

Patient Father, every moment has meaning when we spend it in your presence.

You ask for prolonged faith to mature our knowledge of you.  Enriched by time spent humbly in worship, we are more equipped to draw upon the strength you provide.

May we joyfully dedicate our years to anticipating the fulfillment of your promises.  Lighten the burden of waiting by your restorative touch.

Thank you for faith’s great reward, Jesus Christ, the hope of all generations—our Messiah and long-awaited Child.

Listen to ‘How Sweet to Wait’ by Red Mountain Music