Fourth Sunday of Advent
December 24, 2023
2 Sam. 7:1-11, 16
Luke 1:47-55 or Ps. 89:1-4, 19-26
Romans 16:25-17
Luke 1:26-38
Our gracious and loving God, we pause during this advent time to give you thanks.
We thank you for the beautiful stories surrounding the nativity.
We thank you for the surprise experience of Mary and her receptive spirit which said: “let it be to me according to your word.”
We thank you for the hope which was given in the midst of a culture of despair which stands as a permanent reminder to us that despair often cradles hope.
We thank you for the promise of your reign which is forever and ever.
During this advent journey may we be overshadowed by your spirit and be changed in our inward hearts.
May we know that you also walk with us.
May we know that you care for us and all humankind and though we sometimes give up you never give up on us.
May we know the joy of a renewed spirit.
May we know the resolution of will which makes a new commitment and which responds with a willing “Here am I.”
May we know the mystery of your working in and through people.
And may we know your holy one, Jesus, who became our brother that we might become your children.
We ask your care for our world which is punctuated with so much violence and hatred. Bend low over the twisted hatreds of earth and bring us new life. Melt the hearts of all peoples and bring us peace, O Prince of Peace. Amen
December 24, 2023
2 Sam. 7:1-11, 16
Luke 1:47-55 or Ps. 89:1-4, 19-26
Romans 16:25-17
Luke 1:26-38
Our gracious and loving God, we pause during this advent time to give you thanks.
We thank you for the beautiful stories surrounding the nativity.
We thank you for the surprise experience of Mary and her receptive spirit which said: “let it be to me according to your word.”
We thank you for the hope which was given in the midst of a culture of despair which stands as a permanent reminder to us that despair often cradles hope.
We thank you for the promise of your reign which is forever and ever.
During this advent journey may we be overshadowed by your spirit and be changed in our inward hearts.
May we know that you also walk with us.
May we know that you care for us and all humankind and though we sometimes give up you never give up on us.
May we know the joy of a renewed spirit.
May we know the resolution of will which makes a new commitment and which responds with a willing “Here am I.”
May we know the mystery of your working in and through people.
And may we know your holy one, Jesus, who became our brother that we might become your children.
We ask your care for our world which is punctuated with so much violence and hatred. Bend low over the twisted hatreds of earth and bring us new life. Melt the hearts of all peoples and bring us peace, O Prince of Peace. Amen