PRAYER

Lord Jesus Christ The advent of Your birth draws near.

The time of waiting and wonder, The time of longing and lingering Is nearly over.

As one year rolls into another We teach ourselves amidst the rush To listen, And be still.

Let us listen for the sound of angels’ wings, Bringing word of good news.

Let us listen for the sound of shepherds’ feet, Running to worship a new-born hope. Let us listen for the steady step of camels bearing kings, Off ering gifts in worship.

Let us listen for the distant tramp of hostile soldiers, Reminding us that new birth is not always celebrated.

Let us listen for the cry of an infant, Heralding God breaking in to the human story with love.

Let us be still, When the rush of preparation threatens to overwhelm.

Let us be still, When the endless merriment deafens.

Let us be still When the expense of this season overshadows its true value.

Lord Jesus Christ, Vulnerable yet strong, Helpless yet unbreakable, The persistence of Your love renews each year, And many near to or far from faith, Find hearts warmed, spirits lifted, Hope renewed, love made real.

Be near to us, stay by our side; Be near to us, close by us; Be near to us, love us we pray. For You are the Lord of presence. The source of comfort.

The promise of peace.

We worship You, Lord Jesus Christ, And ready our hearts and minds, Our bodies and souls, In this Advent, as we move to Christmas.

AMEN

This article appears in the December 2018 Issue of Life and Work

Click here to view the article in the magazine.

To view other articles in this issue Click here.

If you would like to view other issues of Life and Work, you can see the full archive here.