December 4 — Romans 13:11–12

And do this, understanding the time: it is already the hour for you to wake up from your slumber, because our salvation is nearer now than when we first believed. The night is nearly over; the day has drawn near. So let us lay aside the deeds of darkness and put on the armor of light.
— Romans 13:11-12


Advent is the season when Scripture calls us to pay attention—to recognize that God is doing something, that His purposes are unfolding even when we are tempted to drift through life half-awake. Paul’s invitation echoes the themes of the prophets: Wake up. Look up. Take notice. The night is fading, and God’s light is approaching with ever-increasing brightness. Our salvation—God’s complete, final redemption—comes closer with each passing day. Advent reminds us that we live not in a closed story but in a story that is moving toward fulfillment. Christ’s first coming anchors our hope; His second coming completes it.

Paul’s language of night and day suggests that the world around us often dulls our spiritual senses. We grow accustomed to noise, distraction, and routines that pull our hearts away from God. Advent interrupts us. It reminds us that we are people of the dawn, called to live in the direction of God’s coming light. “Putting on the armor of light” is a beautiful phrase—it speaks not of heaviness but of holiness, not of fear but of radiance. We resist darkness not with our own strength but with the light Christ clothes us in: His truth, His purity, His compassion, His peace.

As you reflect on Paul’s words, consider these questions: What parts of your life feel spiritually drowsy—places where you’ve drifted, settled, or grown indifferent? What habits or attitudes would you name as “deeds of darkness,” not because they are dramatic sins, but because they dim your awareness of God? And what does it look like, very concretely, to “put on the armor of light” in this season? Perhaps it means choosing honesty over avoidance, patience over irritation, prayer over worry, or kindness over convenience. God’s light is not merely a future promise; it is a present calling.

For today’s practice, take five quiet breaths and imagine dawn spreading across the horizon. With each breath, whisper inwardly: “Awaken me, Lord.” Then, choose one small action of light—a word of encouragement, a moment of silent prayer, a step toward reconciliation, or an act of generosity. Let this action become your way of moving toward the day that is drawing near.


Lord God, 

Awaken my heart to Your presence and Your purposes. Help me lay aside anything that dims my spirit or draws me from Your light. Clothe me in the armor of Your truth, Your peace, and Your love as I walk toward the dawn of Your coming kingdom. 

All this I pray in Jesus’ name. Amen.

-

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