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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
Very truly I tell you, you will weep and mourn while the world rejoices. You will grieve, but your grief will turn to joy.
Sing to the Lord a song of praise
(acapella, or accompanied by instruments / recorded music)
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Praying John 16:20-22 (New International Version)
Very truly I tell you, you will weep and mourn while the world rejoices. You will grieve, but your grief will turn to joy.
A woman giving birth to a child has pain because her time has come; but when her baby is born she forgets the anguish because of her joy that a child is born into the world. *
So also with you: Now is your time of grief, but I will see you again and you will rejoice, and no one will take away your joy.
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. *
Very truly I tell you, you will weep and mourn while the world rejoices. You will grieve, but your grief will turn to joy.
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” )