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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
As we prepare our house for the coming Christmas season, we would also prepare our hearts for the returning Christ. *
You came once for your people, O Lord,
and you will come for us again.
Though there was no room at the inn
to receive you upon your first arrival,*
We would prepare you room
here in our hearts
and here in our home,
Lord Christ.
- Every Moment Holy
Observe a time of silence before the Lord
(1 – 5 minutes)
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Scriptural Theme
The people walking in darkness have seen a great light; on those living in the land of deep darkness a light has dawned.
Sing to the Lord a song of praise
(acapella, or accompanied by instruments / recorded music)
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Praying Isaiah 9:1-7 (New International Version)
Nevertheless, there will be no more gloom for those who were in distress. In the past he humbled the land of Zebulun and the land of Naphtali, but in the future he will honor Galilee of the nations, by the Way of the Sea, beyond the Jordan - *
The people walking in darkness have seen a great light; on those living in the land of deep darkness a light has dawned. You have enlarged the nation and increased their joy; they rejoice before you as people rejoice at the harvest, as warriors rejoice when dividing the plunder.
For as in the day of Midian's defeat, you have shattered the yoke that burdens them, the bar across their shoulders, the rod of their oppressor. Every warrior's boot used in battle and every garment rolled in blood will be destined for burning, will be fuel for the fire. *
For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders. And he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. Of the greatness of his government and peace there will be no end. He will reign on David's throne and over his kingdom, establishing and upholding it with justice and righteousness from that time on and forever. The zeal of the LORD Almighty will accomplish this.
Response to the Scripture
For unto us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be upon his shoulders.
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. *
The people walking in darkness have seen a great light; on those living in the land of deep darkness a light has dawned.
Praise / prayer / silence / sing a new song
(follow the leading of the Holy Spirit)
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Ending Prayer
As we decorate our tree, and as we
feast and laugh and sing together,
we are rehearsing our coming joy!
We are making ready to receive the one
who has already, with open arms, received us!*
We would prepare you room
here in our hearts
and here in our home,
Lord Christ.
Now we celebrate your first coming,
Immanuel, even as we long for your return.
O Prince of Peace, our elder brother,
return soon.*
We miss you so ...
- Every Moment Holy
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” )