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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
Your joy, Abba, is inexhaustible! No wonder you love children so dearly. Children quickly and easily respond to your joy.
Your joy is pure and deep. It comes from beyond the soul. It rises from the depth of your being. This joy can wash away darkness. *
Abba, let that joy flow under the doorways of hearts. Let it wash over the retaining walls of minds. Let your joy drench the heart, mind and spirit of those who are suffering in isolation this Advent season.
Lord, make known to them how your joy is their joy. And your joy dissolves even the heaviest of hearts – it overcomes the loneliest souls. Your joy is heartfelt and honest. Your joy can be trusted. *
Bring them out of isolation and hopelessness to be drenched in your joy!
- Byron Easterling
Observe a time of silence before the Lord
(1 – 5 minutes)
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Scriptural Theme
A star will come out of Jacob; a scepter will rise out of Israel.
Sing to the Lord a song of praise
(acapella, or accompanied by instruments / recorded music)
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Praying Numbers 24:17-19 (New International Version)
I see him, but not now; I behold him, but not near. A star will come out of Jacob; a scepter will rise out of Israel. He will crush the foreheads of Moab, the skulls of all the people of Sheth. Edom will be conquered; Seir, his enemy, will be conquered, but Israel will grow strong. A ruler will come out of Jacob and destroy the survivors of the city.
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. *
A star will come out of Jacob; a scepter will rise out of Israel.
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” )