Praying Isaiah 49:1-6

January 10, 2022 Christ The Reconciler

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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

You, O Lord, are mighty forever, You quicken the dead back to life; You are mighty to save. You cause the wind to blow and the rain to fall. You sustain the living with lovingkindness, quicken the dead with great mercy, support the falling, heal the sick, loose the bound, and keep Your faithfulness to them that sleep in the dust. *
Who is like You, Lord of mighty acts, and who resembles You, O King, who kills and raises from the dead, and causes salvation to spring forth? Who is like You, Father of mercy, who in mercy remember Your creatures unto life? Yea, faithful are You to quicken the dead. Blessed are You, O Lord, who quickens the dead.

- Traditional Sukkot Prayer

Observe a time of silence before the Lord
(1 – 5 minutes)

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Scriptural Theme

It is too small a thing for you to be my servant to restore the tribes of Jacob and bring back those of Israel I have kept. I will also make you a light for the Gentiles, that my salvation may reach to the ends of the earth.

Sing to the Lord a song of praise
(acapella, or accompanied by instruments / recorded music)

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Praying Isaiah 49:1-6 (New International Version)

Listen to me, you islands; hear this, you distant nations: Before I was born the LORD called me; from my mother's womb he has spoken my name. He made my mouth like a sharpened sword, in the shadow of his hand he hid me; he made me into a polished arrow and concealed me in his quiver. He said to me, "You are my servant, Israel, in whom I will display my splendor."

But I said, "I have labored in vain; I have spent my strength for nothing at all. Yet what is due me is in the Lord's hand, and my reward is with my God." And now the Lord says -- he who formed me in the womb to be his servant to bring Jacob back to him and gather Israel to himself, for I am honored in the eyes of the Lord and my God has been my strength -- he says: *
"It is too small a thing for you to be my servant to restore the tribes of Jacob and bring back those of Israel I have kept. I will also make you a light for the Gentiles, that my salvation may reach to the ends of the earth."

Response to the Scripture

LORD, bring to fulfillment the plan that you had in the beginning to bring light to the earth and hope to the nations through the seed of Abraham.

Draw near to God’s throne of grace
with the thanksgivings, prayers, & intercessions that are on your heart

🔔

The Spirit and the Bride say *
“Come!”

Even so, Lord Jesus, come quickly. *
It is too small a thing for you to be my servant to restore the tribes of Jacob and bring back those of Israel I have kept. I will also make you a light for the Gentiles, that my salvation may reach to the ends of the earth.

Praise / prayer / silence / sing a new song

(follow the leading of the Holy Spirit)

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Ending Prayer

Father of lights, in whom there is no shadow or change, there is so much deception and propaganda surrounding the whole topic of Israel. Be pleased to reveal truth and cast down lies and deception wherever they are found, burning through the fog and bringing clarity to the complex situations in this region, through Jesus Christ, our Lord. Amen.

- Dr. Richard Harvey

In the name of the Father, and the Son, and the Holy Spirit. Amen.

( Adapted by Christ the Reconciler from Season 3: Israel Bridge Prayer – “Grafted Into the People of God” )

Praying 2 Samuel 7:22-24

January 9, 2022 Christ The Reconciler

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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

May the blood of the Lamb cover Israel.
May the loving, suffering heart of the Father draw His people to Himself.
May the creative power of the Holy Spirit awaken contrition and repentance in them.
May our sorrow as Christians seeking amends for the past melt their hearts.
May the tears of the triune God open their eyes to see the Redeemer.*
Yes, the day is coming when they will behold the One whom they have pierced and weep for Him as for a first-born son.
For this we pray, knowing that God's gifts and His call are irrevocable:
He will never go back on His promises to His chosen people.
Amen.

- M. Basilea Schlink

Observe a time of silence before the Lord
(1 – 5 minutes)

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Scriptural Theme

And who is like your people Israel - the one nation on earth that God went out to redeem as a people for himself, and to make a name for himself?

Sing to the Lord a song of praise
(acapella, or accompanied by instruments / recorded music)

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Praying 2 Samuel 7:22-24 (New International Version)

How great you are, Sovereign Lord! There is no one like you, and there is no God but you, as we have heard with our own ears. And who is like your people Israel -- the one nation on earth that God went out to redeem as a people for himself, and to make a name for himself, and to perform great and awesome wonders by driving out nations and their gods from before your people, whom you redeemed from Egypt? You have established your people Israel as your very own forever, and you, Lord, have become their God.

Response to the Scripture

LORD, bring to fulfillment the plan that you had in the beginning to bring light to the earth and hope to the nations through the seed of Abraham.

Draw near to God’s throne of grace
with the thanksgivings, prayers, & intercessions that are on your heart

🔔

The Spirit and the Bride say *
“Come!”

Even so, Lord Jesus, come quickly. *
And who is like your people Israel - the one nation on earth that God went out to redeem as a people for himself, and to make a name for himself?

Praise / prayer / silence / sing a new song

(follow the leading of the Holy Spirit)

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Ending Prayer

Thank You, Lord, for the Ruths You have trained for centuries, and who have so faithfully shown us who you really are.

That it is safe to glean in your fields, and even lay at your feet at the middle of the night. *
That you are not going to abuse us or ruin our reputation.

That you will provide our needs and send us back with a double portion and dignity. *
Open our eyes to see how you have woven a precious story, that is about to reach its peak, as both the gentile and the Jew walk into your House and usher in the second coming of the Son

Pour over Your Body an unprecedented measure of your spirit. *
We are longing for that, Lord.

- Orna Grinman, Ot OoMofet Ministries

In the name of the Father, and the Son, and the Holy Spirit. Amen.

( Adapted by Christ the Reconciler from Season 3: Israel Bridge Prayer – “Grafted Into the People of God” )

Praying Deuteronomy 10:12-22

January 8, 2022 Christ The Reconciler

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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

May our Jewish brothers and sisters, who have been led *
“out from among the peoples and gathered from the foreign lands”

and brought back *
“to their own country,”

to the land of their ancestors, be able to live there in peace and security on the *
“mountains of Israel,”

guarded by the protection of God, their true shepherd.

- Pope John Paul II

Observe a time of silence before the Lord
(1 – 5 minutes)

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Scriptural Theme

The LORD defends the cause of the fatherless and the widow, and loves the foreigner residing among you, giving them food and clothing.

Sing to the Lord a song of praise
(acapella, or accompanied by instruments / recorded music)

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Praying Deuteronomy 10:12-22 (New International Version)

And now, O Israel, what does the LORD your God ask of you but to fear the LORD your God, to walk in all his ways, to love him, to serve the LORD your God with all your heart and with all your soul, and to observe the LORD's commands and decrees that I am giving you today for your own good? To the LORD your God belong the heavens, even the highest heavens, the earth and everything in it. Yet the LORD set his affection on your forefathers and loved them, and he chose you, their descendants, above all the nations, as it is today. *
Circumcise your hearts, therefore, and do not be stiff-necked any longer. For the LORD your God is God of gods and Lord of lords, the great God, mighty and awesome, who shows no partiality and accepts no bribes. He defends the cause of the fatherless and the widow, and loves the alien, giving him food and clothing. And you are to love those who are aliens, for you yourselves were aliens in Egypt. Fear the LORD your God and serve him. Hold fast to him and take your oaths in his name. He is your praise; he is your God, who performed for you those great and awesome wonders you saw with your own eyes. Your forefathers who went down into Egypt were seventy in all, and now the LORD your God has made you as numerous as the stars in the sky.

Response to the Scripture

LORD, bring to fulfillment the plan that you had in the beginning to bring light to the earth and hope to the nations through the seed of Abraham.

Draw near to God’s throne of grace
with the thanksgivings, prayers, & intercessions that are on your heart

🔔

The Spirit and the Bride say *
“Come!”

Even so, Lord Jesus, come quickly. *
The LORD defends the cause of the fatherless and the widow, and loves the foreigner residing among you, giving them food and clothing.

Praise / prayer / silence / sing a new song

(follow the leading of the Holy Spirit)

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Ending Prayer

God of glory, we praise you that indigenous congregations are growing and thriving in the Holy Land. Make your servants, both Israeli and Palestinian as well as Gentiles serving God in Israel, to be a true testimony of the love of God and the power of the gospel. May they be enabled to love their enemies, and have a prophetic voice amongst their peoples, and be truly united together as the One New Man in Messiah Jesus, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever. Amen.

- Dr. Richard Harvey

In the name of the Father, and the Son, and the Holy Spirit. Amen.

( Adapted by Christ the Reconciler from Season 3: Israel Bridge Prayer – “Grafted Into the People of God” )

Praying Genesis 12:1-3

January 7, 2022 Christ The Reconciler

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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

Blessed are You, the Lord our G-d, King of the universe, who has granted of His wisdom to those who fear Him.

Blessed are You, the Lord our G-d, King of the universe, who has granted of His honor to those who fear Him. *
Blessed are You, the Lord our G-d, King of the universe, the Master of secrets.

Blessed are You, the Lord our G-d, King of the universe, who has give us life and sustained us and allowed us to reach this occasion. *
Blessed are You, the Lord our G-d, King of the universe, who has redeemed Israel.

Blessed are You, the Lord our G-d, King of the universe, who is good and does good.

- Traditional Jewish Prayer for Greeting the Messiah

Observe a time of silence before the Lord
(1 – 5 minutes)

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Scriptural Theme

I will make you into a great nation, and I will bless you; I will make your name great, and you will be a blessing.

Sing to the Lord a song of praise
(acapella, or accompanied by instruments / recorded music)

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Praying Genesis 12:1-3 (New International Version)

The LORD had said to Abram, "Go from your country, your people and your father's household to the land I will show you. *
"I will make you into a great nation, and I will bless you; I will make your name great, and you will be a blessing. I will bless those who bless you, and whoever curses you I will curse; and all peoples on earth will be blessed through you."

Response to the Scripture

LORD, bring to fulfillment the plan that you had in the beginning to bring light to the earth and hope to the nations through the seed of Abraham.

Draw near to God’s throne of grace
with the thanksgivings, prayers, & intercessions that are on your heart

🔔

The Spirit and the Bride say *
“Come!”

Even so, Lord Jesus, come quickly. *
I will make you into a great nation, and I will bless you; I will make your name great, and you will be a blessing.

Praise / prayer / silence / sing a new song

(follow the leading of the Holy Spirit)

🔔

Ending Prayer

Yes, Lord, what God is like you? *
We thank you for Christ, who on the cross has destroyed our sin!

We thank you because you have drawn all men to Him. *
We thank you because you now pour out on Jerusalem, on your people, a mighty stream of grace and consolation.

- Fr. Raniero Cantalamessa

In the name of the Father, and the Son, and the Holy Spirit. Amen.

( Adapted by Christ the Reconciler from Season 3: Israel Bridge Prayer – “Grafted Into the People of God” )

Praying Luke 2:25-32

January 6, 2022 Christ The Reconciler

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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

Glad is the world and fair this night
With stars about its head,
And the hall is filled with laughter and light,
And fires are burning red.*
The bells of Paradise now ring
With bells of Christendom,
And Gloria, Gloria we will sing
That God on earth is come.

- JRR Tolkien

Observe a time of silence before the Lord
(1 – 5 minutes)

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Scriptural Theme

You have prepared your salvation in the presence of all peoples, a light for revelation to the Gentiles, and for glory to your people Israel.

Sing to the Lord a song of praise
(acapella, or accompanied by instruments / recorded music)

🔔

Praying Luke 2:25-32 (English Standard Version)

Now there was a man in Jerusalem called Simeon, who was righteous and devout. He was waiting for the consolation of Israel, and the Holy Spirit was on him. It had been revealed to him by the Holy Spirit that he would not die before he had seen the Lord's Messiah. *
Moved by the Spirit, he went into the temple courts. When the parents brought in the child Jesus to do for him what the custom of the Law required, Simeon took him in his arms and praised God, saying: "Sovereign Lord, as you have promised, you may now dismiss your servant in peace. For my eyes have seen your salvation, which you have prepared in the sight of all nations: a light for revelation to the Gentiles, and the glory of your people Israel."

Response to the Scripture

Lo How a Rose e'er blooming, from tender stem hath sprung. Of Jesse's lineage coming as men of old have sung. It came a flower bright, amid the cold of winter, when half spent was the night.

Draw near to God’s throne of grace
with the thanksgivings, prayers, & intercessions that are on your heart

🔔

The Spirit and the Bride say *
“Come!”

Even so, Lord Jesus, come quickly. *
You have prepared your salvation in the presence of all peoples, a light for revelation to the Gentiles, and for glory to your people Israel.

Praise / prayer / silence / sing a new song

(follow the leading of the Holy Spirit)

🔔

Ending Prayer

My lowly heart His manger bed
A place to lay His royal head,
Amidst the brokenness and strife
of my confused and empty life.

To bring His light, His hope, His gain
Into my life of guilt and pain,
To conquer all my fear and dread,
To come and be my Heavenly Bread.*
To shine His light on all that's true,
To feed and fill and make me new,
To give His Body for my own,
Flesh of His flesh, bone of His bone.

- Pat Bailey

In the name of the Father, and the Son, and the Holy Spirit. Amen.

( Adapted by Christ the Reconciler from Season 2: Christmas Bridge Prayer – “The Joy of Longing Fulfilled” )

Praying Matthew 2:13-20

January 5, 2022 Christ The Reconciler

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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

- JRR Tolkien

Observe a time of silence before the Lord
(1 – 5 minutes)

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Scriptural Theme

Out of Egypt I called my son.

Sing to the Lord a song of praise
(acapella, or accompanied by instruments / recorded music)

🔔

Praying Matthew 2:13-20 (English Standard Version)

When they had gone, an angel of the Lord appeared to Joseph in a dream. "Get up," he said, "take the child and his mother and escape to Egypt. Stay there until I tell you, for Herod is going to search for the child to kill him." *
So he got up, took the child and his mother during the night and left for Egypt, where he stayed until the death of Herod. And so was fulfilled what the Lord had said through the prophet: "Out of Egypt I called my son."

When Herod realized that he had been outwitted by the Magi, he was furious, and he gave orders to kill all the boys in Bethlehem and its vicinity who were two years old and under, in accordance with the time he had learned from the Magi. Then what was said through the prophet Jeremiah was fulfilled: "A voice is heard in Ramah, weeping and great mourning, Rachel weeping for her children and refusing to be comforted, because they are no more." *
After Herod died, an angel of the Lord appeared in a dream to Joseph in Egypt and said, "Get up, take the child and his mother and go to the land of Israel, for those who were trying to take the child's life are dead."

Response to the Scripture

Lo How a Rose e'er blooming, from tender stem hath sprung. Of Jesse's lineage coming as men of old have sung. It came a flower bright, amid the cold of winter, when half spent was the night.

Draw near to God’s throne of grace
with the thanksgivings, prayers, & intercessions that are on your heart

🔔

The Spirit and the Bride say *
“Come!”

Even so, Lord Jesus, come quickly. *
Out of Egypt I called my son.

Praise / prayer / silence / sing a new song

(follow the leading of the Holy Spirit)

🔔

Ending Prayer

My lowly heart His manger bed
A place to lay His royal head,
Amidst the brokenness and strife
of my confused and empty life.

- Pat Bailey

In the name of the Father, and the Son, and the Holy Spirit. Amen.

( Adapted by Christ the Reconciler from Season 2: Christmas Bridge Prayer – “The Joy of Longing Fulfilled” )

Praying Luke 9:28-36

January 4, 2022 Christ The Reconciler

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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

Deep in the night the voice of the waves on the shore announced to us: Christ is born! Son of the King of kings from the land of salvation, the mountains glowed to Him, the plains glowed to Him, then shone the sun on the mountains high to Him. All hail, let there be joy.
God the Lord has opened a Door. Christ of hope, Door of joy! Son of Mary, hasten Thou to help me: In me, Lord Christ, let there be joy.

- Celtic Daily Prayer

Observe a time of silence before the Lord
(1 – 5 minutes)

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Scriptural Theme

This is my Son, my Chosen One; listen to him!

Sing to the Lord a song of praise
(acapella, or accompanied by instruments / recorded music)

🔔

Praying Luke 9:28-36 (English Standard Version)

Now about eight days after these sayings he took with him Peter and John and James and went up on the mountain to pray. And as he was praying, the appearance of his face was altered, and his clothing became dazzling white. And behold, two men were talking with him, Moses and Elijah, who appeared in glory and spoke of his departure, which he was about to accomplish at Jerusalem. *
Now Peter and those who were with him were heavy with sleep, but when they became fully awake they saw his glory and the two men who stood with him. And as the men were parting from him, Peter said to Jesus, "Master, it is good that we are here. Let us make three tents, one for you and one for Moses and one for Elijah” -- not knowing what he said.

As he was saying these things, a cloud came and overshadowed them, and they were afraid as they entered the cloud. And a voice came out of the cloud, saying, *
"This is my Son, my Chosen One; listen to him!" And when the voice had spoken, Jesus was found alone. And they kept silent and told no one in those days anything of what they had seen.

Response to the Scripture

Father God, we would not know you but that You revealed yourself to us. We agree with the testimony of Heaven that Jesus is your true and divine son. Through him and by him we can know you, love you and approach you with confidence.

Draw near to God’s throne of grace
with the thanksgivings, prayers, & intercessions that are on your heart

🔔

The Spirit and the Bride say *
“Come!”

Even so, Lord Jesus, come quickly. *
This is my Son, my Chosen One; listen to him!

Praise / prayer / silence / sing a new song

(follow the leading of the Holy Spirit)

🔔

Ending Prayer

Almighty God, give us grace that we may cast away the works of darkness, and put upon us the armour of light, now in the time of this mortal life in which thy Son Jesus Christ came to visit us in great humility; that in the last day, when he shall come again in his glorious majesty to judge both the quick and the dead, we may rise to the life immortal; through him who liveth and reigneth with thee and the Holy Ghost, one God, now and for ever. Amen.

- Anglican Book of Common Prayer

In the name of the Father, and the Son, and the Holy Spirit. Amen.

( Adapted by Christ the Reconciler from Season 2: Christmas Bridge Prayer – “The Joy of Longing Fulfilled” )

Praying Luke 1:46-55

January 3, 2022 Christ The Reconciler

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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

All hail! Let there be joy! Hail to the King, hail to the King, blessed is He, blessed is He.
The peace of earth to Him; the joy of heaven to Him. The homage of a King be His, King of all victory; the welcome of a Lamb be His, Lamb of all glory: the Son of glory down from on high. All hail, let there be joy.

- Celtic Daily Prayer

Observe a time of silence before the Lord
(1 – 5 minutes)

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Scriptural Theme

My soul doth magnify the Lord and my spirit hath rejoiced in God my Saviour.

Sing to the Lord a song of praise
(acapella, or accompanied by instruments / recorded music)

🔔

Praying Luke 1:46-55 (King James Version)

My soul doth magnify the Lord and my spirit hath rejoiced in God my Saviour - For he hath regarded the lowliness of his handmaiden. For behold, from henceforth all generations shall call me blessed. For he that is mighty hath magnified me and holy is his Name. His mercy is on them that fear him, throughout all generations. He hath shewed strength with his arm; he hath scattered the proud in the imagination of their hearts. He hath put down the mighty from their seat and hath exalted the humble and meek. He hath filled the hungry with good things and the rich he hath sent empty away. He, remembering his mercy, hath holpen his servant Israel as he promised to our forefathers, Abraham and his seed for ever.

Response to the Scripture

Joy to the world! The Lord is come! Let earth receive her King. Let every heart prepare him room, and heaven and nature sing.

Draw near to God’s throne of grace
with the thanksgivings, prayers, & intercessions that are on your heart

🔔

The Spirit and the Bride say *
“Come!”

Even so, Lord Jesus, come quickly. *
My soul doth magnify the Lord and my spirit hath rejoiced in God my Saviour.

Praise / prayer / silence / sing a new song

(follow the leading of the Holy Spirit)

🔔

Ending Prayer

Christ as a light, illumine and guide me. Christ as a shield, overshadow me.
Christ under me, Christ over me, Christ beside me, on my left and my right.
This day be within and without me, lowly and meek, yet all powerful.
Be in the heart of each to whom I speak, and in the mouth of each who speaks unto me.
This day be within and without me, lowly and meek, yet all powerful.
Christ as a light, Christ as a shield, Christ beside me, on my left and my right.

In the name of the Father, and the Son, and the Holy Spirit. Amen.

( Adapted by Christ the Reconciler from Season 2: Christmas Bridge Prayer – “The Joy of Longing Fulfilled” )

Praying Matthew 2:1-11

January 2, 2022 Christ The Reconciler

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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

- JRR Tolkien

Observe a time of silence before the Lord
(1 – 5 minutes)

🔔

Scriptural Theme

They saw the child with his mother Mary, and they bowed down and worshiped him.

Sing to the Lord a song of praise
(acapella, or accompanied by instruments / recorded music)

🔔

Praying Matthew 2:1-11 (New International Version)

After Jesus was born in Bethlehem in Judea, during the time of King Herod, Magi from the east came to Jerusalem and asked, "Where is the one who has been born king of the Jews? We saw his star when it rose and have come to worship him." *
When King Herod heard this he was disturbed, and all Jerusalem with him. When he had called together all the people's chief priests and teachers of the law, he asked them where the Messiah was to be born. "In Bethlehem in Judea," they replied, "for this is what the prophet has written: 'But you, Bethlehem, in the land of Judah, are by no means least among the rulers of Judah; or out of you will come a ruler who will shepherd my people Israel.'"

Then Herod called the Magi secretly and found out from them the exact time the star had appeared. He sent them to Bethlehem and said, "Go and search carefully for the child. As soon as you find him, report to me, so that I too may go and worship him." After they had heard the king, they went on their way, and the star they had seen when it rose went ahead of them until it stopped over the place where the child was. *
When they saw the star, they were overjoyed. On coming to the house, they saw the child with his mother Mary, and they bowed down and worshiped him. Then they opened their treasures and presented him with gifts of gold, frankincense and myrrh.

Response to the Scripture

Lo How a Rose e'er blooming, from tender stem hath sprung. Of Jesse's lineage coming as men of old have sung. It came a flower bright, amid the cold of winter, when half spent was the night.

Draw near to God’s throne of grace
with the thanksgivings, prayers, & intercessions that are on your heart

🔔

The Spirit and the Bride say *
“Come!”

Even so, Lord Jesus, come quickly. *
They saw the child with his mother Mary, and they bowed down and worshiped him.

Praise / prayer / silence / sing a new song

(follow the leading of the Holy Spirit)

🔔

Ending Prayer

My lowly heart His manger bed
A place to lay His royal head,
Amidst the brokenness and strife
of my confused and empty life.

- Pat Bailey

In the name of the Father, and the Son, and the Holy Spirit. Amen.

( Adapted by Christ the Reconciler from Season 2: Christmas Bridge Prayer – “The Joy of Longing Fulfilled” )

Praying Matthew 3:13-17

January 1, 2022 Christ The Reconciler

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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

- Celtic Daily Prayer

Observe a time of silence before the Lord
(1 – 5 minutes)

🔔

Scriptural Theme

This is my Son, whom I love; with him I am well pleased.

Sing to the Lord a song of praise
(acapella, or accompanied by instruments / recorded music)

🔔

Praying Matthew 3:13-17 (New International Version)

Then Jesus came from Galilee to the Jordan to be baptized by John. But John tried to deter him, saying, "I need to be baptized by you, and do you come to me?" *
Jesus replied, "Let it be so now; it is proper for us to do this to fulfill all righteousness." Then John consented.

As soon as Jesus was baptized, he went up out of the water. At that moment heaven was opened, and he saw the Spirit of God descending like a dove and alighting on him. *
And a voice from heaven said, "This is my Son, whom I love; with him I am well pleased."

Response to the Scripture

Draw near to God’s throne of grace
with the thanksgivings, prayers, & intercessions that are on your heart

🔔

The Spirit and the Bride say *
“Come!”

Even so, Lord Jesus, come quickly. *
This is my Son, whom I love; with him I am well pleased.

Praise / prayer / silence / sing a new song

(follow the leading of the Holy Spirit)

🔔

Ending Prayer

- Anglican Book of Common Prayer

In the name of the Father, and the Son, and the Holy Spirit. Amen.

( Adapted by Christ the Reconciler from Season 2: Christmas Bridge Prayer – “The Joy of Longing Fulfilled” )

Praying Luke 1:68-79

December 31, 2021 Christ The Reconciler

🔔

I join with all who are praying *
to the Father, through the Son, in the power of the Holy Spirit. Amen.

Opening Prayer

- Celtic Daily Prayer

Observe a time of silence before the Lord
(1 – 5 minutes)

🔔

Scriptural Theme

Praise be to the Lord, the God of Israel, because he has come to his people and redeemed them.

Sing to the Lord a song of praise
(acapella, or accompanied by instruments / recorded music)

🔔

Praying Luke 1:68-79 (New International Version)

Praise be to the Lord, the God of Israel, because he has come to his people and redeemed them. He has raised up a horn of salvation for us in the house of his servant David (as he said through his holy prophets of long ago), salvation from our enemies and from the hand of all who hate us --

to show mercy to our ancestors and to remember his holy covenant, the oath he swore to our father Abraham: to rescue us from the hand of our enemies, and to enable us to serve him without fear in holiness and righteousness before him all our days. *
And you, my child, will be called a prophet of the Most High; for you will go on before the Lord to prepare the way for him, to give his people the knowledge of salvation through the forgiveness of their sins, because of the tender mercy of our God, by which the rising sun will come to us from heaven to shine on those living in darkness and in the shadow of death, to guide our feet into the path of peace.

Response to the Scripture

Joy to the world! The Lord is come! Let earth receive her King. Let every heart prepare him room, and heaven and nature sing.

Draw near to God’s throne of grace
with the thanksgivings, prayers, & intercessions that are on your heart

🔔

The Spirit and the Bride say *
“Come!”

Even so, Lord Jesus, come quickly. *
Praise be to the Lord, the God of Israel, because he has come to his people and redeemed them.

Praise / prayer / silence / sing a new song

(follow the leading of the Holy Spirit)

🔔

Ending Prayer

- Traditional

In the name of the Father, and the Son, and the Holy Spirit. Amen.

( Adapted by Christ the Reconciler from Season 2: Christmas Bridge Prayer – “The Joy of Longing Fulfilled” )

Praying Luke 2:1-14

December 30, 2021 Christ The Reconciler

🔔

I join with all who are praying *
to the Father, through the Son, in the power of the Holy Spirit. Amen.

Opening Prayer

- JRR Tolkien

Observe a time of silence before the Lord
(1 – 5 minutes)

🔔

Scriptural Theme

Do not be afraid. I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people.

Sing to the Lord a song of praise
(acapella, or accompanied by instruments / recorded music)

🔔

Praying Luke 2:1-14 (New International Version - 1984)

And it came to pass in those days that a decree went out from Caesar Augustus that all the world should be registered. This census first took place while Quirinius was governing Syria. So all went to be registered, everyone to his own city. *
Joseph also went up from Galilee, out of the city of Nazareth, into Judea, to the city of David, which is called Bethlehem, because he was of the house and lineage of David, to be registered with Mary, his betrothed wife, who was with child. So it was, that while they were there, the days were completed for her to be delivered. And she brought forth her firstborn Son, and wrapped Him in swaddling cloths, and laid Him in a manger, because there was no room for them in the inn.

Now there were in the same country shepherds living out in the fields, keeping watch over their flock by night. And behold, an angel of the Lord stood before them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were greatly afraid. Then the angel said to them, *
"Do not be afraid, for behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy which will be to all people. For there is born to you this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord. And this will be the sign to you: You will find a Babe wrapped in swaddling cloths, lying in a manger."

And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God and saying: *
"Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace to men on whom God's favor rests."

Response to the Scripture

Lo How a Rose e'er blooming, from tender stem hath sprung. Of Jesse's lineage coming as men of old have sung. It came a flower bright, amid the cold of winter, when half spent was the night.

Draw near to God’s throne of grace
with the thanksgivings, prayers, & intercessions that are on your heart

🔔

The Spirit and the Bride say *
“Come!”

Even so, Lord Jesus, come quickly. *
Do not be afraid. I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people.

Praise / prayer / silence / sing a new song

(follow the leading of the Holy Spirit)

🔔

Ending Prayer

My lowly heart His manger bed
A place to lay His royal head,
Amidst the brokenness and strife
of my confused and empty life.

- Pat Bailey

In the name of the Father, and the Son, and the Holy Spirit. Amen.

( Adapted by Christ the Reconciler from Season 2: Christmas Bridge Prayer – “The Joy of Longing Fulfilled” )

Praying John 1:23-31

December 29, 2021 Christ The Reconciler

🔔

I join with all who are praying *
to the Father, through the Son, in the power of the Holy Spirit. Amen.

Opening Prayer

- Celtic Daily Prayer

Observe a time of silence before the Lord
(1 – 5 minutes)

🔔

Scriptural Theme

Behold, the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world!

Sing to the Lord a song of praise
(acapella, or accompanied by instruments / recorded music)

🔔

Praying John 1:23-31 (New International Version - 1984)

John replied in the words of Isaiah the prophet, "I am the voice of one calling in the wilderness, 'Make straight the way for the Lord.'" *
Now the Pharisees who had been sent questioned him, "Why then do you baptize if you are not the Messiah, nor Elijah, nor the Prophet?"

"I baptize with water," John replied, "but among you stands one you do not know. He is the one who comes after me, the straps of whose sandals I am not worthy to untie." This all happened at Bethany on the other side of the Jordan, where John was baptizing. *
The next day John saw Jesus coming toward him and said, "Behold, the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world! This is the one I meant when I said, 'A man who comes after me has surpassed me because he was before me.' I myself did not know him, but the reason I came baptizing with water was that he might be revealed to Israel."

Response to the Scripture

Draw near to God’s throne of grace
with the thanksgivings, prayers, & intercessions that are on your heart

🔔

The Spirit and the Bride say *
“Come!”

Even so, Lord Jesus, come quickly. *
Behold, the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world!

Praise / prayer / silence / sing a new song

(follow the leading of the Holy Spirit)

🔔

Ending Prayer

- Anglican Book of Common Prayer

In the name of the Father, and the Son, and the Holy Spirit. Amen.

( Adapted by Christ the Reconciler from Season 2: Christmas Bridge Prayer – “The Joy of Longing Fulfilled” )

Praying Psalm 98: 1-3

December 28, 2021 Christ The Reconciler

🔔

I join with all who are praying *
to the Father, through the Son, in the power of the Holy Spirit. Amen.

Opening Prayer

- Celtic Daily Prayer

Observe a time of silence before the Lord
(1 – 5 minutes)

🔔

Scriptural Theme

Sing to the LORD a new song, for he has done marvelous things.

Sing to the Lord a song of praise
(acapella, or accompanied by instruments / recorded music)

🔔

Praying Psalm 98: 1-3 (New International Version)

Sing to the Lord a new song, for he has done marvelous things; *
His right hand and his holy arm have worked salvation for him. The Lord has made his salvation known and revealed his righteousness to the nations.

He has remembered his love and his faithfulness to Israel; all the ends of the earth have seen the salvation of our God.

Response to the Scripture

Joy to the world! The Lord is come! Let earth receive her King. Let every heart prepare him room, and heaven and nature sing.

Draw near to God’s throne of grace
with the thanksgivings, prayers, & intercessions that are on your heart

🔔

The Spirit and the Bride say *
“Come!”

Even so, Lord Jesus, come quickly. *
Sing to the LORD a new song, for he has done marvelous things.

Praise / prayer / silence / sing a new song

(follow the leading of the Holy Spirit)

🔔

Ending Prayer

- Traditional

In the name of the Father, and the Son, and the Holy Spirit. Amen.

( Adapted by Christ the Reconciler from Season 2: Christmas Bridge Prayer – “The Joy of Longing Fulfilled” )

Praying Matthew 1:18-25

December 27, 2021 Christ The Reconciler

🔔

I join with all who are praying *
to the Father, through the Son, in the power of the Holy Spirit. Amen.

Opening Prayer

- JRR Tolkien

Observe a time of silence before the Lord
(1 – 5 minutes)

🔔

Scriptural Theme

She will give birth to a son, and you are to name him Yeshua, because he will save his people from their sins.

Sing to the Lord a song of praise
(acapella, or accompanied by instruments / recorded music)

🔔

Praying Matthew 1:18-25 (Complete Jewish Bible)

Here is how the birth of Yeshua the Messiah took place. When his mother Miryam was engaged to Yosef, before they were married, she was found to be pregnant from the Ruach HaKodesh. Her husband-to-be, Yosef, was a man who did what was right; so he made plans to break the engagement quietly, rather than put her to public shame. But while he was thinking about this, an angel of Adonai appeared to him in a dream and said, *
"Yosef, son of David, do not be afraid to take Miryam home with you as your wife; for what has been conceived in her is from the Ruach HaKodesh. She will give birth to a son, and you are to name him Yeshua, (which means 'YHWH' saves,) because he will save his people from their sins."

All this happened in order to fulfill what Adonai had said through the prophet, *
"The virgin will conceive and bear a son, and they will call him 'Immanu El.'" (The name means, "God is with us.")

When Yosef awoke he did what the angel of Adonai had told him to do -- he took Miryam home to be his wife, but he did not consummate their marriage until she had given birth to a son, and he named him Yeshua.

Response to the Scripture

Lo How a Rose e'er blooming, from tender stem hath sprung. Of Jesse's lineage coming as men of old have sung. It came a flower bright, amid the cold of winter, when half spent was the night.

Draw near to God’s throne of grace
with the thanksgivings, prayers, & intercessions that are on your heart

🔔

The Spirit and the Bride say *
“Come!”

Even so, Lord Jesus, come quickly. *
She will give birth to a son, and you are to name him Yeshua, because he will save his people from their sins.

Praise / prayer / silence / sing a new song

(follow the leading of the Holy Spirit)

🔔

Ending Prayer

My lowly heart His manger bed
A place to lay His royal head,
Amidst the brokenness and strife
of my confused and empty life.

- Pat Bailey

In the name of the Father, and the Son, and the Holy Spirit. Amen.

( Adapted by Christ the Reconciler from Season 2: Christmas Bridge Prayer – “The Joy of Longing Fulfilled” )

Praying Luke 1:26-38

December 26, 2021 Christ The Reconciler

🔔

I join with all who are praying *
to the Father, through the Son, in the power of the Holy Spirit. Amen.

Opening Prayer

- Celtic Daily Prayer

Observe a time of silence before the Lord
(1 – 5 minutes)

🔔

Scriptural Theme

"I am the Lord's servant," Mary answered. "May it be unto me as you have said."

Sing to the Lord a song of praise
(acapella, or accompanied by instruments / recorded music)

🔔

Praying Luke 1:26-38 (New International Version - 1984)

In the sixth month of Elizabeth's pregnancy, God sent the angel Gabriel to Nazareth, a town in Galilee, to a virgin pledged to be married to a man named Joseph, a descendant of David. The virgin's name was Mary. The angel went to her and said, "Greetings, you who are highly favored! The Lord is with you."

Mary was greatly troubled at his words and wondered what kind of greeting this might be. But the angel said to her, *
"Do not be afraid, Mary; you have found favor with God. You will conceive and give birth to a son, and you are to call him Jesus. He will be great and will be called the Son of the Most High. The Lord God will give him the throne of his father David, and he will reign over Jacob's descendants forever; his kingdom will never end." "How will this be," Mary asked the angel, "since I am a virgin?"

The angel answered, "The Holy Spirit will come on you, and the power of the Most High will overshadow you. So the holy one to be born will be called the Son of God. Even Elizabeth your relative is going to have a child in her old age, and she who was said to be unable to conceive is in her sixth month. For no word from God will ever fail." *
"I am the Lord's servant," Mary answered. "May it be to me as You have said."

Response to the Scripture

Draw near to God’s throne of grace
with the thanksgivings, prayers, & intercessions that are on your heart

🔔

The Spirit and the Bride say *
“Come!”

Even so, Lord Jesus, come quickly. *
"I am the Lord's servant," Mary answered. "May it be unto me as you have said."

Praise / prayer / silence / sing a new song

(follow the leading of the Holy Spirit)

🔔

Ending Prayer

- Anglican Book of Common Prayer

In the name of the Father, and the Son, and the Holy Spirit. Amen.

( Adapted by Christ the Reconciler from Season 2: Christmas Bridge Prayer – “The Joy of Longing Fulfilled” )

Praying 1 Peter 1:3-5

December 25, 2021 Christ The Reconciler

🔔

I join with all who are praying *
to the Father, through the Son, in the power of the Holy Spirit. Amen.

Opening Prayer

- Celtic Daily Prayer

Observe a time of silence before the Lord
(1 – 5 minutes)

🔔

Scriptural Theme

In his great mercy he has given us new birth into a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead.

Sing to the Lord a song of praise
(acapella, or accompanied by instruments / recorded music)

🔔

Praying 1 Peter 1:3-5 (New International Version)

Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ! In his great mercy he has given us new birth into a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, and into an inheritance that can never perish, spoil or fade. This inheritance is kept in heaven for you, who through faith are shielded by God's power until the coming of the salvation that is ready to be revealed in the last time.

Response to the Scripture

Joy to the world! The Lord is come! Let earth receive her King. Let every heart prepare him room, and heaven and nature sing.

Draw near to God’s throne of grace
with the thanksgivings, prayers, & intercessions that are on your heart

🔔

The Spirit and the Bride say *
“Come!”

Even so, Lord Jesus, come quickly. *
In his great mercy he has given us new birth into a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead.

Praise / prayer / silence / sing a new song

(follow the leading of the Holy Spirit)

🔔

Ending Prayer

- Traditional

In the name of the Father, and the Son, and the Holy Spirit. Amen.

( Adapted by Christ the Reconciler from Season 2: Christmas Bridge Prayer – “The Joy of Longing Fulfilled” )

Praying Isaiah 7:11-14

December 24, 2021 Christ The Reconciler

🔔

I join with all who are praying *
to the Father, through the Son, in the power of the Holy Spirit. Amen.

Opening Prayer

God of the watching ones, *
give us Your benediction.

God of the waiting ones, *
give us Your good word for our souls.

God of the watching ones, the waiting ones, the slow and suffering ones, *
give us Your benediction, Your good word for our souls, that we might rest.

God of the watching ones, the waiting ones, the slow and suffering ones, and of the angels in heaven, and of the child in the womb, *
give us Your benediction, Your good word for our souls, that we might rest and rise in the kindness of Your company.

- Celtic Daily Prayer

Observe a time of silence before the Lord
(1 – 5 minutes)

🔔

Scriptural Theme

Therefore the LORD himself will give you a sign: The virgin will conceive and give birth to a son, and will call him Immanuel.

Sing to the Lord a song of praise
(acapella, or accompanied by instruments / recorded music)

🔔

Praying Isaiah 7:11-14 (New International Version)

"Ask the Lord your God for a sign, whether in the deepest depths or in the highest heights." But Ahaz said, "I will not ask; I will not put the Lord to the test." *
Then Isaiah said, "Hear now, you house of David! Is it not enough to try the patience of humans? Will you try the patience of my God also? Therefore the LORD himself will give you a sign: The virgin will conceive and give birth to a son, and will call him Immanuel."

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

🔔

The Spirit and the Bride say *
“Come!”

Even so, Lord Jesus, come quickly. *
Therefore the LORD himself will give you a sign: The virgin will conceive and give birth to a son, and will call him Immanuel.

Praise / prayer / silence / sing a new song

(follow the leading of the Holy Spirit)

🔔

Ending Prayer

King of Glory, come and finish Your work in our cities, our peoples and our nations. We lift our voices in unison with believers from the Middle East and Europe, from North and South America, and from Australia and the Pacific Islands - together we cry: *
"Lift up your heads, O you gates! Be lifted up ancient doors so that the King of Glory may come in!"

As Your deeds increase throughout the earth, and as Your blessings abound to all the nations, they will seek You, asking: *
"Who is this King of glory?"

Together we will answer: *
"He is the Lord Almighty! Blessed is He who comes in the name of the Lord!"

Come fill the earth with Your glory as the waters cover the sea. The Spirit and the Bride say: *
"Amen! Come Lord Jesus!"

- Global Day of Prayer 2009

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” )

Praying Numbers 24:17-19

December 23, 2021 Christ The Reconciler

🔔

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)

🔔

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)

🔔

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

🔔

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)

🔔

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” )

Praying Genesis 49:10-12

December 22, 2021 Christ The Reconciler

🔔

I join with all who are praying *
to the Father, through the Son, in the power of the Holy Spirit. Amen.

Opening Prayer

Eternal Light, shine into our hearts, Eternal Goodness, deliver us from evil, Eternal Power, be our support, Eternal Wisdom, scatter the darkness of our ignorance, Eternal Pity, have mercy upon us; that with all our heart and mind and soul and strength we may seek thy face and be brought by thine infinite mercy to thy holy presence; through Jesus Christ our Lord.

- the Oxford Book of Prayer

Observe a time of silence before the Lord
(1 – 5 minutes)

🔔

Scriptural Theme

The scepter will not depart from Judah, nor the ruler's staff from between his feet, until he to whom it belongs shall come and the obedience of the nations shall be his.

Sing to the Lord a song of praise
(acapella, or accompanied by instruments / recorded music)

🔔

Praying Genesis 49:10-12 (New International Version)

The scepter will not depart from Judah, nor the ruler's staff from between his feet, until he to whom it belongs shall come and the obedience of the nations shall be his. He will tether his donkey to a vine, his colt to the choicest branch; he will wash his garments in wine, his robes in the blood of grapes. His eyes will be darker than wine, his teeth whiter than milk.

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

🔔

The Spirit and the Bride say *
“Come!”

Even so, Lord Jesus, come quickly. *
The scepter will not depart from Judah, nor the ruler's staff from between his feet, until he to whom it belongs shall come and the obedience of the nations shall be his.

Praise / prayer / silence / sing a new song

(follow the leading of the Holy Spirit)

🔔

Ending Prayer

O God, who didst reveal Thyself to us in the birth of Thy Son in human flesh, make us to tremble at the thought of Thy divine incarnation. May we, like Mary, receive the light of Thy Word with wondrous awe. We beseech you O Lord, in this advent season, to stir up in us reverence and admiration for Thy Christ child. May we never forget the greatness of Thy divine power, providence and love. Through Christ our Lord. Amen.

- Christ Church Austin - 2011 Advent Liturgy

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” )