Today’s prayers come from John Birch’s new book The Act of Prayer
Scripture:
Isaiah 40:1-11; Psalm 85:1-2, 8-13; 2 Peter 3:8-15A; Mark 1:1-8
Opening Prayer
As people walk by
to purchase for those they love
gifts that, in days to come,
will fade from memory,
within this place we gather
in celebration of your loving gift
to all humankind,
remembered this and every day
by all who have welcomed
Christ Jesus into their hearts.
Adoration
In the lonely places,
the wilderness where we stand forlorn,
windswept and alone:
Leader: A voice calls out,
All: Prepare a way for the Lord.
In the dark places,
the shadows where we hide our fears
and embrace out tears:
Leader: A voice calls out,
All: Prepare a way for the Lord.
In the comfortable places
the valleys we have walked before,
where we feel secure
Leader: A voice calls out,
All: Prepare a way for the Lord.
Confession
We have a promise,
a God-given promise
that all will not fail-
and a new heaven and a new earth,
where love and righteousness reside.
May our lives reflect
that promise and be found spotless
on that glorious day.
God of love and mercy,
pour your living water into these hearts;
cleanse and refresh them
that they might overflow in praise.
Thanksgiving
In the streets we walk
and the places we go,
with people we meet,
and decisions we make,
thank you for being our guide,
O Lord.
Take us to places where you would go;
give us words that you would say;
so that in this Advent season of promise and preparation,
we might gratefully point the way
to the one who takes away
the sin of the world.