Praying Psalm 118:15-29

๐Ÿ””

 

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 โ€“ 5 minutes)

 

๐Ÿ””

 

Scriptural Theme

The LORD has chastened me severely, but he has not given me over to death.

 

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

 

๐Ÿ””

 

Praying Psalm 118:15-29 (New International Version)

Shouts of joy and victory resound in the tents of the righteous:
"The LORD's right hand has done mighty things! The LORD's right hand is lifted high; the LORD's right hand has done mighty things!"*
I will not die but live, and will proclaim what the LORD has done. The LORD has chastened me severely, but he has not given me over to death. Open for me the gates of the righteous; I will enter and give thanks to the LORD. This is the gate of the LORD through which the righteous may enter. I will give you thanks, for you answered me; you have become my salvation.

The stone the builders rejected has become the cornerstone; the LORD has done this, and it is marvelous in our eyes. The LORD has done it this very day; let us rejoice today and be glad. LORD, save us! LORD, grant us success! Blessed is he who comes in the name of the LORD. From the house of the LORD we bless you. *
The LORD is God, and he has made his light shine on us. With boughs in hand, join in the festal procession up to the horns of the altar. You are my God, and I will praise you; you are my God, and I will exalt you. Give thanks to the LORD, for he is good; his love endures forever.

 

Response to the Scripture

Save us, Oh God of  our salvation; gather us and deliver us from the nations, that we may give thanks to your holy Name, and revel in your praise!

 

Draw near to Godโ€™s throne of grace
with the thanksgivings, prayers, & intercessions that are on your heart

 

๐Ÿ””

 

The Spirit and the Bride say *
โ€œCome!โ€

Even so, Lord Jesus, come quickly. *
The LORD has chastened me severely, but he has not given me over to death.

 

Praise / prayer / silence / sing a new song

(follow the leading of the Holy Spirit)

 

๐Ÿ””

 

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 โ€“ โ€œGrafted Into the People of Godโ€ )

 

Praying Psalm 123

๐Ÿ””

 

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 โ€“ 5 minutes)

 

๐Ÿ””

 

Scriptural Theme

Have mercy on us, Lord, have mercy on us,for we have endured no end of contempt.

 

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

 

๐Ÿ””

 

Praying Psalm 123  (New International Version)

I lift up my eyes to you, to you who sit enthroned in heaven.

As the eyes of slaves look to the hand of their master, as the eyes of a female slave look to the hand of her mistress, so our eyes look to the Lord our God, till he shows us his mercy.

Have mercy on us, Lord, have mercy on us, for we have endured no end of contempt. We have endured no end of ridicule from the arrogant, of contempt from the proud.

 

Response to the Scripture

Save us, Oh God of  our salvation; gather us and deliver us from the nations, that we may give thanks to your holy Name, and revel in your praise!

 

Draw near to Godโ€™s throne of grace
with the thanksgivings, prayers, & intercessions that are on your heart

 

๐Ÿ”” 

The Spirit and the Bride say *
โ€œCome!โ€

Even so, Lord Jesus, come quickly. *
Have mercy on us, Lord, have mercy on us,for we have endured no end of contempt.

 

Praise / prayer / silence / sing a new song

(follow the leading of the Holy Spirit)

 

๐Ÿ””

 

Ending Prayer

Father of glory, give us the spirit of wisdom and revelation that we might know You. What a privilege it is to know that Your glory can fill the very places in our lives that cause us so much shame. *
We want to live our lives between the two Altars, with the assurance that Your blood purifies us and Your Word washes our understanding. That your torn body, when it tabernacles within us, gradually fills us with Your Glory, grace and truth.

Blessed are You, our God, King of the universe, for satisfying the desire of every living thing, for bringing forth the true Bread of life from the earth, and the true Vine; for setting a banquet Table within us every time we invite You into our innermost being. *
Lift up your heads, all these locked gates within us, so that the King of Glory will come in.

- 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 โ€“ โ€œGrafted Into the People of Godโ€ )

 

Praying Psalm 122

๐Ÿ””

 

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  *
โ€œout from among the peoples and gathered from the foreign landsโ€

and brought back *
โ€œto their own country, 

to the land of their ancestors, be able to live there in peace and security on the *
โ€œmountains of Israel,โ€

guarded by the protection of God, their true shepherd.

- Pope John Paul II

 

Observe a time of silence before the Lord
(1 โ€“ 5 minutes)

 

๐Ÿ””

 

Scriptural Theme

May there be peace within your walls and security within your citadels.

 

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

 

๐Ÿ”” 

Praying Psalm 122  (New International Version)

I rejoiced with those who said to me, "Let us go to the house of the LORD."
Our feet are standing in your gates, Jerusalem.
Jerusalem is built like a city that is closely compacted together. That is where the tribes go up -- the tribes of the LORD -- to praise the name of the LORD according to the statute given to Israel. There stand the thrones for judgment, the thrones of the house of David.*
Pray for the peace of Jerusalem:
"May those who love you be secure. May there be peace within your walls and security within your citadels."
For the sake of my family and friends, I will say,
"Peace be within you."
For the sake of the house of the LORD our God, I will seek your prosperity.

 

Response to the Scripture

Save us, Oh God of  our salvation; gather us and deliver us from the nations, that we may give thanks to your holy Name, and revel in your praise!

 

Draw near to Godโ€™s throne of grace
with the thanksgivings, prayers, & intercessions that are on your heart

 

๐Ÿ””

 

The Spirit and the Bride say *
โ€œCome!โ€

Even so, Lord Jesus, come quickly. *
May there be peace within your walls and security within your citadels.

 

Praise / prayer / silence / sing a new song

(follow the leading of the Holy Spirit)

 

๐Ÿ””

 

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 โ€“ โ€œGrafted Into the People of Godโ€ )

 

Praying Isaiah 51:1-6

๐Ÿ””

 

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 โ€“ 5 minutes)

 

๐Ÿ””

 

Scriptural Theme

LORD, your instruction will go forth; your justice will become a light to the nations.

 

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

 

๐Ÿ””

 

Praying Isaiah 51:1-6 (New International Version)

"Listen to me, you who pursue righteousness and who seek the LORD: Look to the rock from which you were cut and to the quarry from which you were hewn; look to Abraham, your father, and to Sarah, who gave you birth. When I called him he was only one man, and I blessed him and made him many." *
The LORD will surely comfort Zion and will look with compassion on all her ruins; he will make her deserts like Eden, her wastelands like the garden of the LORD. Joy and gladness will be found in her, thanksgiving and the sound of singing.

"Listen to me, my people; hear me, my nation: Instruction will go out from me; my justice will become a light to the nations. My righteousness draws near speedily, my salvation is on the way, and my arm will bring justice to the nations. The islands will look to me and wait in hope for my arm. Lift up your eyes to the heavens, look at the earth beneath; the heavens will vanish like smoke, the earth will wear out like a garment and its inhabitants die like flies. But my salvation will last forever, my righteousness will never fail."

 

Response to the Scripture

Save us, Oh God of  our salvation; gather us and deliver us from the nations, that we may give thanks to your holy Name, and revel in your praise!

 

Draw near to Godโ€™s throne of grace
with the thanksgivings, prayers, & intercessions that are on your heart

 

๐Ÿ””

 

The Spirit and the Bride say *
โ€œCome!โ€

Even so, Lord Jesus, come quickly. *
LORD, your instruction will go forth; your justice will become a light to the nations.

 

Praise / prayer / silence / sing a new song

(follow the leading of the Holy Spirit)

 

๐Ÿ””

 

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 โ€“ โ€œGrafted Into the People of Godโ€ )

 

Praying Deuteronomy 7:7-9

๐Ÿ””

 

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

 

Opening Prayer

O Adonai, and leader of the House of Israel,
who appeared to Moses in the fire of the burning bush
and gave him the law on Sinai: *
Touch the bare branches of our unbelief
And blaze again like fire in every leaf.

- Malcolm Guite

 

Observe a time of silence before the Lord
(1 โ€“ 5 minutes)

 

๐Ÿ””

 

Scriptural Theme

It was because the LORD loved you and kept the oath he swore to your ancestors that he brought you out with a mighty hand and redeemed you from the land of slavery.

 

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

 

๐Ÿ””

 

Praying Deuteronomy 7:7-9 (New International Version)

The LORD did not set his affection on you and choose you because you were more numerous than other peoples, for you were the fewest of all peoples. *
But it was because the LORD loved you and kept the oath he swore to your ancestors that he brought you out with a mighty hand and redeemed you from the land of slavery, from the power of Pharaoh king of Egypt. 

Know therefore that the LORD your God is God; he is the faithful God, keeping his covenant of love to a thousand generations of those who love him and keep his commandments.

 

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 Godโ€™s throne of grace
with the thanksgivings, prayers, & intercessions that are on your heart

 

๐Ÿ””

 

The Spirit and the Bride say *
โ€œCome!โ€

Even so, Lord Jesus, come quickly. *
It was because the LORD loved you and kept the oath he swore to your ancestors that he brought you out with a mighty hand and redeemed you from the land of slavery.

 

Praise / prayer / silence / sing a new song

(follow the leading of the Holy Spirit)

 

๐Ÿ””

 

Ending Prayer

Oh, to see the sight, next to Christโ€™s coming in the clouds, the most joyful! Our elder brethren the Jews and Christ fall upon one anotherโ€™s neck and kiss each other!

They have been long asunder; they will be kind to one another when they meet. *
O Day! O longed for and lovely dawn! 

O sweet Jesus, let me see that sight which will be as life from the dead, Thee and Thy ancient people in mutual embraces.

- Samuel Ratherford

 

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 โ€“ โ€œGrafted Into the People of Godโ€ )

 

Praying Isaiah 49:1-6

๐Ÿ””

 

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 โ€“ 5 minutes)

 

๐Ÿ””

 

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)

 

๐Ÿ””

 

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 Godโ€™s throne of grace
with the thanksgivings, prayers, & intercessions that are on your heart

 

๐Ÿ””

 

The Spirit and the Bride say *
โ€œCome!โ€

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)

 

๐Ÿ””

 

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 โ€“ โ€œGrafted Into the People of Godโ€ )

 

Praying 2 Samuel 7:22-24

๐Ÿ””

 

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 โ€“ 5 minutes)

 

๐Ÿ””

 

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)

 

๐Ÿ””

 

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 Godโ€™s throne of grace
with the thanksgivings, prayers, & intercessions that are on your heart

 

๐Ÿ””

 

The Spirit and the Bride say *
โ€œCome!โ€

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)

 

๐Ÿ””

 

Ending Prayer

Father of glory, give us the spirit of wisdom and revelation that we might know You. What a privilege it is to know that Your glory can fill the very places in our lives that cause us so much shame. *
We want to live our lives between the two Altars, with the assurance that Your blood purifies us and Your Word washes our understanding. That your torn body, when it tabernacles within us, gradually fills us with Your Glory, grace and truth.

Blessed are You, our God, King of the universe, for satisfying the desire of every living thing, for bringing forth the true Bread of life from the earth, and the true Vine; for setting a banquet Table within us every time we invite You into our innermost being. *
Lift up your heads, all these locked gates within us, so that the King of Glory will come in.

- 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 โ€“ โ€œGrafted Into the People of Godโ€ )

 

Praying Deuteronomy 10:12-22

๐Ÿ””

 

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  *
โ€œout from among the peoples and gathered from the foreign landsโ€

and brought back *
โ€œto their own country,โ€

to the land of their ancestors, be able to live there in peace and security on the *
โ€œmountains of Israel,โ€

guarded by the protection of God, their true shepherd.

- Pope John Paul II

 

Observe a time of silence before the Lord
(1 โ€“ 5 minutes)

 

๐Ÿ””

 

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)

 

๐Ÿ””

 

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 Godโ€™s throne of grace
with the thanksgivings, prayers, & intercessions that are on your heart

 

๐Ÿ””

 

The Spirit and the Bride say *
โ€œCome!โ€

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)

 

๐Ÿ””

 

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 โ€“ โ€œGrafted Into the People of Godโ€ )

 

Praying Genesis 12:1-3

๐Ÿ””

 

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 โ€“ 5 minutes)

 

๐Ÿ””

 

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)

 

๐Ÿ””

 

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 Godโ€™s throne of grace
with the thanksgivings, prayers, & intercessions that are on your heart

 

๐Ÿ””

 

The Spirit and the Bride say *
โ€œCome!โ€

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)

 

๐Ÿ””

 

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 โ€“ โ€œGrafted Into the People of Godโ€ )

 

Praying Matthew 3:13-17

๐Ÿ””

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 โ€“ 5 minutes)

๐Ÿ””

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)

๐Ÿ””

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

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 Godโ€™s throne of grace

with the thanksgivings, prayers, & intercessions that are on your heart

๐Ÿ””

The Spirit and the Bride say *

โ€œCome!โ€

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)

๐Ÿ””

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 โ€“ โ€œThe Joy of Longing Fulfilledโ€ )


Praying John 1:23-31

๐Ÿ””

 

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 โ€“ 5 minutes)

 

๐Ÿ””

 

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)

 

๐Ÿ””

 

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

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 Godโ€™s throne of grace
with the thanksgivings, prayers, & intercessions that are on your heart

 

๐Ÿ””

 

The Spirit and the Bride say *
โ€œCome!โ€

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)

 

๐Ÿ””

 

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 โ€“ โ€œThe Joy of Longing Fulfilledโ€ )

 

Praying Luke 1:46-55

๐Ÿ””

 

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

 

Opening Prayer

O Jesu Christ, focus my attention on You.
O Son of Mary, be cradled in my heart.
O Most Holy, fix my mind and my heart's gaze upon You.

- Celtic Daily Prayer

 

Observe a time of silence before the Lord
(1 โ€“ 5 minutes)

 

๐Ÿ””

 

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)

 

๐Ÿ””

 

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 Godโ€™s throne of grace
with the thanksgivings, prayers, & intercessions that are on your heart

 

๐Ÿ””

 

The Spirit and the Bride say *
โ€œCome!โ€

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)

 

๐Ÿ””

 

Ending Prayer

When God made man, he gave him all the earth,
All growing things, with every bird and beast;
Then Adam named them at the Lordโ€™s command,
Subdued the greatest of them, and the least.

In his own image God created man,
And when from dust he fashioned Adamโ€™s face,
The likeness of his only Son was formed:
His Word incarnate, filled with truth and grace.*
To God the Father and to Christ his Son
And blessed Spirit heaven and earth give praise.
Creation with tremendous voice cries out:
All holy is the mighty Lord of Days.

- Stanbrook Abbey Hymnal

 

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 โ€“ โ€œThe Joy of Longing Fulfilledโ€ )

 

Praying Luke 1:68-79

๐Ÿ””

 

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 โ€“ 5 minutes)

 

๐Ÿ””

 

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)

 

๐Ÿ””

 

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 Godโ€™s throne of grace
with the thanksgivings, prayers, & intercessions that are on your heart

 

๐Ÿ””

 

The Spirit and the Bride say *
โ€œCome!โ€

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)

 

๐Ÿ””

 

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 โ€“ โ€œThe Joy of Longing Fulfilledโ€ )

 

Praying Psalm 98:1-3

๐Ÿ””

 

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 โ€“ 5 minutes)

 

๐Ÿ””

 

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)

 

๐Ÿ””

 

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 Godโ€™s throne of grace
with the thanksgivings, prayers, & intercessions that are on your heart

 

๐Ÿ””

 

The Spirit and the Bride say *
โ€œCome!โ€

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)

 

๐Ÿ””

 

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 โ€“ โ€œThe Joy of Longing Fulfilledโ€ )

 

Praying 1 Peter 1:3-5

๐Ÿ””

 

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 โ€“ 5 minutes)

 

๐Ÿ””

 

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)

 

๐Ÿ””

 

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 Godโ€™s throne of grace
with the thanksgivings, prayers, & intercessions that are on your heart

 

๐Ÿ””

 

The Spirit and the Bride say *
โ€œCome!โ€

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)

 

๐Ÿ””

 

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.

- 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 โ€“ โ€œThe Joy of Longing Fulfilledโ€ )

 

Praying Revelation 7:9-12

๐Ÿ””

 

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 โ€“ 5 minutes)

 

๐Ÿ””

 

Scriptural Theme

Salvation belongs to our God, who sits on the throne, and to the Lamb.

 

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

 

๐Ÿ””

 

Praying Revelation 7:9-12 (New International Version)

After this I looked, and there before me was a great multitude that no one could count, from every nation, tribe, people and language, standing before the throne and before the Lamb. They were wearing white robes and were holding palm branches in their hands. And they cried out in a loud voice: *
"Salvation belongs to our God, who sits on the throne, and to the Lamb."

All the angels were standing around the throne and around the elders and the four living creatures. They fell down on their faces before the throne and worshiped God, saying: *
"Amen! Praise and glory and wisdom and thanks and honor and power and
strength be to our God for ever and ever. Amen!"

 

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 Godโ€™s throne of grace
with the thanksgivings, prayers, & intercessions that are on your heart

 

๐Ÿ””

 

The Spirit and the Bride say *
โ€œCome!โ€

Even so, Lord Jesus, come quickly. *
Salvation belongs to our God, who sits on the throne, and to the Lamb.

 

Praise / prayer / silence / sing a new song

(follow the leading of the Holy Spirit)

 

๐Ÿ””

 

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 โ€“ โ€œThe Joy of Longing Fulfilledโ€ )

 

Praying Luke 2:25-32

๐Ÿ””

 

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

 

Opening Prayer

Almighty God, on the day of Pentecost you opened the way of eternal life to every race and nation by the promised gift of your Holy Spirit:  *
Shed abroad this gift throughout the world by the preaching of the Gospel, that it may reach to the ends of the earth; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you, in the unity of the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen.

- Anglican Book of Common Prayer

 

Observe a time of silence before the Lord
(1 โ€“ 5 minutes)

 

๐Ÿ””

 

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)

 

๐Ÿ””

 

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

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 Godโ€™s throne of grace
with the thanksgivings, prayers, & intercessions that are on your heart

 

๐Ÿ””

The Spirit and the Bride say *
โ€œCome!โ€

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)

 

๐Ÿ””

 

Ending Prayer

We sinners pray, hear us, Holy Spirit.

That you would take away from us all hatred and prejudice and whatever else hinders us from godly union and concord, *
that you would give us the gift of perseverance, that being faithful to the point of death, we may hereafter be glorified with Christ,

that you would bring new life to your Church, that reaching to the measure of the fullness of Christ, when he appears in glory at the end of time,  *
Hear us, good Lord.

- Litany of the Holy Spirit

 

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

 

( Adapted by Christ the Reconciler from Season 6: Pentecost Bridge Prayer โ€“ โ€œGlobal Evangelism and Revivalโ€ )

 

Praying Matthew 2:13-20

๐Ÿ””

 

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

 

Opening Prayer

O Jesu Christ, focus my attention on You.
O Son of Mary, be cradled in my heart.
O Most Holy, fix my mind and my heart's gaze upon You.

- Celtic Daily Prayer

 

Observe a time of silence before the Lord
(1 โ€“ 5 minutes)

 

๐Ÿ””

 

Scriptural Theme

Out of Egypt I called my son.

 

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

 

๐Ÿ””

 

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 Godโ€™s throne of grace
with the thanksgivings, prayers, & intercessions that are on your heart

 

๐Ÿ””

 

The Spirit and the Bride say *
โ€œCome!โ€

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)

 

๐Ÿ””

 

Ending Prayer

When God made man, he gave him all the earth,
All growing things, with every bird and beast;
Then Adam named them at the Lordโ€™s command,
Subdued the greatest of them, and the least.

In his own image God created man,
And when from dust he fashioned Adamโ€™s face,
The likeness of his only Son was formed:
His Word incarnate, filled with truth and grace.*
To God the Father and to Christ his Son
And blessed Spirit heaven and earth give praise.
Creation with tremendous voice cries out:
All holy is the mighty Lord of Days.

- Stanbrook Abbey Hymnal

 

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 โ€“ โ€œThe Joy of Longing Fulfilledโ€ )

 

Praying Matthew 2:1-11

๐Ÿ””

 

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 โ€“ 5 minutes)

 

๐Ÿ””

 

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)

 

๐Ÿ””

 

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 Godโ€™s throne of grace
with the thanksgivings, prayers, & intercessions that are on your heart

 

๐Ÿ””

 

The Spirit and the Bride say *
โ€œCome!โ€

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)

 

๐Ÿ””

 

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 โ€“ โ€œThe Joy of Longing Fulfilledโ€ )

 

Praying Luke 2:1-14

๐Ÿ””

 

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 โ€“ 5 minutes)

 

๐Ÿ””

 

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)

 

๐Ÿ””

 

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 Godโ€™s throne of grace
with the thanksgivings, prayers, & intercessions that are on your heart

 

๐Ÿ””

 

The Spirit and the Bride say *
โ€œCome!โ€

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)

 

๐Ÿ””

 

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 โ€“ โ€œThe Joy of Longing Fulfilledโ€ )