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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
Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, ever faithful to your promises, your faithful people rejoice in hope of the Saviour's coming and look forward with longing to his return at the end of the age. *
Help us to drink of this truth and expand our hearts with the joy of his promises, so that we may serve you in constant hope. We ask this through the same Christ our Lord. Amen.
- Fr. Peter Hocken, Litany of the Coming of the King in Glory
Observe a time of silence before the Lord
(1 – 5 minutes)
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Scriptural Theme
But you, brothers and sisters, are not in darkness so that this day should surprise you like a thief.
Sing to the Lord a song of praise
(acapella, or accompanied by instruments / recorded music)
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Praying 1 Thessalonians 5:1-11 (New International Version)
Now, brothers and sisters, about times and dates we do not need to write to you, for you know very well that the day of the Lord will come like a thief in the night. While people are saying, "Peace and safety," destruction will come on them suddenly, as labor pains on a pregnant woman, and they will not escape. *
But you, brothers and sisters, are not in darkness so that this day should surprise you like a thief. You are all children of the light and children of the day. We do not belong to the night or to the darkness. So then, let us not be like others, who are asleep, but let us be awake and sober. For those who sleep, sleep at night, and those who get drunk, get drunk at night. But since we belong to the day, let us be sober, putting on faith and love as a breastplate, and the hope of salvation as a helmet.
For God did not appoint us to suffer wrath but to receive salvation through our Lord Jesus Christ. He died for us so that, whether we are awake or asleep, we may live together with him. *
Therefore encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing.
Response to the Scripture
You will pour out Your Spirit on all flesh, and everyone who calls on the name of the LORD will be saved.
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. *
But you, brothers and sisters, are not in darkness so that this day should surprise you like a thief.
Praise / prayer / silence / sing a new song
(follow the leading of the Holy Spirit)
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Ending Prayer
O my soul, be mindful of that awesome day, and wake up and light your lamp with the oil of joy, for you do not know when the voice will call upon you saying: "Behold, the Bridegroom is coming." *
So, take heed, my soul, not to fall asleep, lest you stand outside knocking like the five foolish virgins. But watch, entreating that you may meet Christ the Lord with rich oil, and He may grant you the wedding of His true and heavenly glory.
- The Agpeya of the Coptic Church
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” )