Liturgy
There will be signs in the sun, moon and stars.
We have walked and lived in darkness, but we have seen a great light…
For a child has been born for us, a son given to us; authority rests upon his shoulders;
and he is named Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.
The Wise Men and shepherds saw signs that foretold Jesus’ coming 2000 years ago.
Today we don’t look for a single brilliant star to follow or for angels singing in the heavens.
We look for other signs that Jesus is with us, signs that:
…we are feeding the hungry, healing the sick,
…clothing the naked, caring for the poor,
…working for justice and righteousness at home and in our city.
And so we watch and wait, staying alert and waiting again for the coming of Jesus
as we light a single candle in preparation for that glorious day.
Community Confession
The coming of our Lord is near,
And we wait in joyful expectation,
Draw close, Lord Jesus Christ,
Shed your light on all that is filled with darkness.
The coming of our Lord is near,
And we wait with hope filled hearts,
Draw close, God’s beloved son,
Teach us the wonder of your all-embracing love.
The coming of our Lord is near,
And we wait for God’s redeeming presence,
Draw close, Savior of all creation,
Our hearts ache for justice,
our minds long for holiness,
our spirits seek for unity.
The coming of our Lord is near,
And we wait for the fulfillment of God’s promises,
Draw close, reconciler and transformer of all things,
Renew our world, restore your peace, display your righteousness.
The coming of our Lord is near,
And we wait attentive to the signs of his coming,
Draw close, Lord Jesus Christ,
God beyond imagining, fully God yet truly human, draw close
Amen
Describe a time where you experienced a season of spiritual darkness
What were some lessons learned during that time?
Which of the spiritual practices could you try during this season of Advent
Benediction
Lord Jesus Christ,
who is, who was, and who is to come,
We pray for the virtue of hope,
that amidst the trials and difficulties
of this world,
we may keep our hearts fixed
upon you, who reigns over the world.
Open our eyes to see this world
that we may know the places where you are needed.
May your grace enliven us,
strengthen us,
and defend us,
as we learn to live graciously
as your people and your church.
In the name of the Father, the Son,
and of the Holy Spirit, amen.
Go in peace and live the church.
See you throughout the week.