By Shandra Newcom of Independence, Missouri USA

He has brought down the powerful from their thrones, and lifted up the lowly; he has filled the hungry with good things, and sent the rich away empty.

[Excerpted from “When We Gather,” Advent and Christmas 2025 Resource]

God of the next, the waiting, the promise:
We humbly come to you and we bring all our stuff; all our things and fears, all our belongings and questions, all our purchases and uncertainties—that which is tangible and that which is intangible, and we bring it in hope.

We hope that we can live patiently in this Advent time.
We hope that we can be set free from that which holds us.
We hope that we can remember that this is a community, yours, that must make the journey together.

We confess that too often we insist on making it alone.
Remind us of our interdependence.
Grant us patience to live in encounter and to trust in your slow work.

We hope that we can take time to hear stories.
We hope that we can stop and learn and listen.
We hope that we can sit quietly long enough to know that you are here.
And that you are being born again in this season.

May the cycle of Advent be a spiral that leads us to the light of the world.
And may we wait, wait for you, Divine Love.
Amen.

Prayer Phrase

“I bring you good news that will cause great joy” (Luke 2:10).

Kindling the Light

Choose a quiet spot where you can sit comfortably. Place a candle or small light in front of you. Take a few slow breaths, letting the noise of the day settle. Light the candle. As you strike the match or switch on the light, say softly:
“I make room for joy to grow within me.
I make room for the light that connects me to others.
I make room for the Spirit of Christ.”
Pause for a few breaths, letting the glow of the light fill your awareness.

Today’s Prayer for Peace

Engage in a daily practice of praying for peace in our world. Click here to read today’s prayer and be part of this practice of peace.