Advent Prayer for December 17

Nativity Prayer of St. Augustine

St. Augustine of Hippo (5^th century)

 

Let the just rejoice,
for their justifier is born.
Let the sick and infirm rejoice,
For their Saviour is born.
Let the captives rejoice,
For their Redeemer is born.
Let slaves rejoice,
for their Master is born.
Let free men rejoice,
For their Liberator is born.
Let All Christians rejoice,
For Jesus Christ is born.

 

            In this ancient prayer, Augustine challenges the pray-er to rejoice in phrases that connect with their individual place in life.  While one human being cannot be all things to all people, Jesus can.  Think on these today. Are you standing in righteousness today?  It is only because Christ has made you just before the Father.  Are you struggling?  Your Saviour brings you his saving grace.  Are you bound in some way, taken captive by desires, addictions, and tenacious habits?  There is one who redeems you.

            Even for those who are bound in slavery – through abusive marriages, through human trafficking, through economic bondage, or through besetting sin – Jesus stands ready to be your Master.  And, as Augustine reminds us, even for the one who sees himself/herself as a free person, it is because of liberation in Christ.

            Yes, today is a day of rejoicing.  In Christ, God meets us where we are and provides just what we need for the day.  That’s a hallelujah moment for sure.

 

Prayer Focus: rejoice!