Prayer for the season of Advent
Yes! Christmas is approaching, and we are waiting in faith...
In faith, we await the Emmanuel, God manifesting himself and becoming present among us.
We wait in faith for the Prince of Peace, for God to become incarnate in our troubled world.
Some may tell us, “You are waiting for the impossible”, and we shall recall the angel Gabriel’s words to Mary at the beginning of the very first Advent: “Nothing is impossible for God”.
We wait in trust and prayer... but beware! Advent is only three weeks long this year. So let us not delay in praying, in expressing our faith in the One who, at Christmas, becomes one of us, so that, with us, he can make God present in our world that longs for peace.
Here is a suggestion for prayer.
An Advent Prayer for the Lord to Come
This Advent, Lord, come to the manger of my heart. Fill me with your presence from the very start. As I prepare for the holidays and gifts to be given, remind me of the gift you gave when you sent your Son from heaven. The first Christmas gift, it was the greatest gift ever. You came as a baby born in a manger. Wrapped like the gifts I find under my tree, waiting to be opened, to reveal your love to me. Restore to me the wonder that came with Jesus’ birth.
Immanuel, God with us, your presence came that night. And angels announced, “Into your darkness, God brings his light.” “Do not be afraid,” they said, to shepherds in the field. Speak to my heart today, Lord, and help me to yield. Make me like those shepherd boys, obedient to Your call. Setting distractions and worries aside, to you I surrender them all.
Surround me with your presence, Lord, I long to hear your voice. Clear my mind of countless concerns and all the holiday noise. Slow me down this Christmas: let me not be in a rush; I want to feel your hush.
This Christmas, Jesus, come to the manger of my heart. Invade my soul like Bethlehem, bringing peace to every part. Dwell within and around me, as I unwrap your presence each day. Keep me close to you, Lord.
[Renee Swope, “The Manger of My Heart” - Source: Christianity.com]
Related Posts:
The broken ones,
Bruised by the miseries,
Wearied by the burdens of life...
A fortnight ago we entered Lent, the 40 days of preparation for the feast of Easter. A time for reflection, awareness and prayer. On this first day of March, we invite you to meditate on the words of a Lenten hymn...
Ash Wednesday, the first day of this “journey towards Easter”, which can be demanding if you put your heart into it. Like any mountain hiker walking along a rocky or snowy path, you’re aware of where you’re stepping, you’re aware of the challenges...
