Advent 6- Constant Presence

December 2
Constant Presence

Read Genesis 28:10–22

When Jacob fled in mortal fear of Esau’s wrath God was with him. God’s promise to Abraham, given to Jacob in the blessing of Isaac, was renewed in Jacob’s dream of the ladder to heaven. God’s promises are constant even when we sin, even when we sleep. The folk hymn, ‘We Are Climbing Jacob’s Ladder’ (All God’s People Sing, 251, CPH 1992) asks the question, ‘If you love Him, Why not serve Him?’ A valid question that does not accurately reflect the message of the dream. Jacob did not climb the ladder, rather the Angels of God descended the ladder to care for Jacob.

A less well known hymn, ‘My Maker, be Thou Nigh’, is designated as a confirmation hymn and seeks God’s protective presence throughout life. Luther’s evening prayer, with its petition, ‘Let your holy angels be with me’ acknowledges the might of God and our own weakness. 

“Abide, O Dearest Jesus”, often used at the close of service, also makes a lovely lullaby and bedtime prayer. A slightly different translation, “Abide with us, our Savior” May sound more familiar to your ear. See the CSB, SBH, LBW, or LW for that translation.

Abide, O Dearest Jesus, Among us with Your grace

That Satan may not harm us Nor we to sin give place.

Abide, O dear Redeemer, Among us with Your Word,

And thus now and her after True peace and joy afford.

Abide with heav’nly brightness Among us, precious Light;

Your truth direct and keep us From error’s gloomy night.

Abide with richest blessings Among us, bounteous Lord;

Let us in grace and wisdom Grow daily through Your Word.

Abide with Your protection Among us, Lord, our strength,

Lest world and Satan fell us And overcome at length.

Abide, O faithful Savior, Among us with Your love;

Grant steadfastness and help us To reach our home above.

For the Family:

The symbol, a rising ladder or stair case, reminds us of God’s constant presence in our lives. Hang this symbol on your Tree of Promise and give thanks for God’s promise of continuing care.  

Advent 6- Bible Journaling
Genesis 28:10-22
Connie Denninger

From the Kitchen:
Seven Layer Cookies

These cookies are not a ladder, but they do have layers and that counts for something, doesn’t it? They were a favorite with my husband, John Hartwig, and while he lived I made them. 

• Melt one stick of butter in a 9 X 13 pan.
• Add the following ingredients in layers in the order given:
• 1 cup graham cracker crumbs
• 1 cup shredded coconut
• 1 cup chocolate chip
• 1 cup chopped nuts
• 1 cup butterscotch chips
• 1 can sweetened condensed milk
• Bake at 350 for 25 minutes. 
• Cool before cutting.

Tree of Promise Devotions

Natalie Grace Hartwig