The Lord sets the prisoners free; the Lord opens the eyes of the blind. The Lord lifts up those who are bowed down; the Lord loves the righteous. The Lord watches over the strangers; he upholds the orphan and the widow, but the way of the wicked he brings to ruin.

[Excerpted from December 2024 Advent Worship Planning Tools]

Sower of seeds, you promise to feed your flock like a shepherd, to gather your lambs, to gently lead. In this time of Advent darkness, we sit in hope for the things to come. We gather in community to hear of your promises of peace and redemption. We hope that in the grand design of this time of rest for Earth that you will bring us peace.

God, open our eyes to the hope that you have for the world to be at peace. Help us to gather in those who feel no hope in this time, that they may find new life in you. Bring us all to a place of hope again. From that new sense of hope, allow us to go and proclaim peace, to be peace in our neighborhoods, to act for peace in the world at large.

God, we hope for a time of peace again, we hope for the promises of your peace made real through Jesus again, we hope for a deeper connection with you again. Grant us the peace to hope again. 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.