Nevertheless the gloom will not be upon her who is distressed, as when at first he lightly esteemed the land of Zebulun and the land of Naphtali, and afterward more heavily oppressed her, by the way of the sea, beyond the Jordan, in Galilee of the Gentiles. The people who walked in darkness have seen a great light; those who dwelt in the land of the shadow of death, upon them a light has shined. (Isaiah 9:1-2)
Lord Jesus Christ, let your light shine forth in the Episcopal Church — so many sit in darkness and gloom — let your light shine upon them and upon us.
You have multiplied the nation and increased its joy; they rejoice before you according to the joy of harvest, as men rejoice when they divide the spoil. (Isaiah 9:3)
Holy Spirit, help us know the joy of harvest — let there be a great harvest of souls brought to you.
For you have broken the yoke of his burden and the staff of his shoulder, the rod of his oppressor, as in the day of Midian. (Isaiah 9:4)
Father, by your might and great power break the yoke and the rod of oppression that afflict your people.
For every warrior’s sandal from the noisy battle, and garments rolled in blood, will be used for burning and fuel of fire. (Isaiah 9:5)
Lord, we are battle weary — bring us to a place and a time of rest in you.
For unto us a Child is born, unto us a Son is given; and the government will be upon his shoulder. And his name will be called Wonderful, Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. (Isaiah 9:6)
Thank you, Jesus, for coming in such an unexpected way — continue to surprise us with joy and prepare our hearts for your coming.
Of the increase of his government and peace there will be no end, upon the throne of David and over his kingdom, to order it and establish it with judgment and justice from that time forward, even forever. the zeal of the Lord of hosts will perform this. (Isaiah 9:7)
Holy Spirit, we pray for the increase of Jesus’ governance in the Episcopal Church and in the government of the United States.
Jesus, we trust your zeal will turn us around. Thank you.
A word received: Pray for my light to shine forth among my people.
Tuesday: 45 * 47, 48; Isaiah 9:1-7; 2 Peter 1:12-21; Luke 22:54-69
Wednesday: 119:49-72 * 49, [53]; Isaiah 9:8-17; 2 Peter 2:1-10a; Mark 1:1-8
Albany Intercessor
