Heavenly Father — We rejoice in your presence. We have arrived at your throne of Grace ushered in by the Spirit and given access by your Son, Jesus. We thank you for the joy of your salvation and your eternal communion — the communion of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit.
On this first Sunday of Advent we are grateful that Jesus Christ, the Author and Finisher of our faith has entered into our situation and the frailties of our flesh. Though, we may find our selves asking, “How long?”
How long Lord shall the wicked prosper? How long Lord shall our hearts be tested? How long will the push and pull of climate and gravity create troubles? How long will we feel torn between the old and the new?
For some in our congregation today these questions are not theoretical. Our brothers and sisters groan under the weight of anxiety and we lift them up to you Lord.
Come now, Holy Spirit and breathe peace.
For some in our campus the pursuit of security and the conviction of their conscience weighs heavily on them. Come now Lord Jesus and be their Saviour.
For some in our Province the destructive powers of nature and storms have displaced them and is exacting a terrible toll. Oh Father, be their comfort and help.
As leaders assemble and people are mobilized across this land we pray that you would grant wisdom for rebuilding. We ask that you would move hearts to release resources. In the neighbourhoods that are hosting people we pray that you would fortify them with hospitality. We pray that You would create spaces of welcome, healing and refuge.
We need You and so we pray as Jesus teaches us.
(Please join me in the Lord’s Prayer.)
Our Father in heaven,
hallowed be your name,
your kingdom come,
your will be done,
on earth as it is in heaven.
Give us today our daily bread.
And forgive us our debts,
as we also have forgiven our debtors.
And lead us not into temptation,
but deliver us from the evil one;
for yours is the kingdom,
and the power, and the glory, forever.
Amen.