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I join with all who are praying *
to the Father, through the Son, in the power of the Holy Spirit. Amen.
Opening Prayer
Everlasting God, as our hearts yearn and groan within us waiting for the fullness of your kingdom, help us to pray, help us to wait, help us to not be misled by deception, but with undivided hearts look for the true light of your coming.
- Christ the Reconciler
Observe a time of silence before the Lord
(1 – 5 minutes)
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Scriptural Theme
"Do I bring to the moment of birth and not give delivery?" says the LORD. "Do I close up the womb when I bring to delivery?"
Sing to the Lord a song of praise
(acapella, or accompanied by instruments / recorded music)
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Praying Isaiah 66:7-11 (New International Version)
Before she goes into labor, she gives birth; before the pains come upon her, she delivers a son.
Who has ever heard of such things? Who has ever seen things like this? Can a country be born in a day or a nation be brought forth in a moment? Yet no sooner is Zion in labor than she gives birth to her children. *
"Do I bring to the moment of birth and not give delivery?" says the LORD. "Do I close up the womb when I bring to delivery?" says your God. "Rejoice with Jerusalem and be glad for her, all you who love her; rejoice greatly with her, all you who mourn over her.
For you will nurse and be satisfied at her comforting breasts; you will drink deeply and delight in her overflowing abundance."
Response to the Scripture
Hope of all the ends of the earth, bright and morning star; rise like the day in our hearts. Come to weary hearts - come and stay.
Draw near to God’s throne of grace
with the thanksgivings, prayers, & intercessions that are on your heart
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The Spirit and the Bride say *
“Come!”
Even so, Lord Jesus, come quickly. *
"Do I bring to the moment of birth and not give delivery?" says the LORD. "Do I close up the womb when I bring to delivery?"
Praise / prayer / silence / sing a new song
(follow the leading of the Holy Spirit)
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Ending Prayer
All-powerful God, increase our will for doing good that Christ may find an eager welcome when he comes to call us to his side in the kingdom of heaven, where he lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, forever and ever.
- A Prayer Book of Catholic Devotions
In the name of the Father, and the Son, and the Holy Spirit. Amen.
( Adapted by Christ the Reconciler from Season 1: Advent Bridge Prayer – “Longing for the Messiah to come” )