Prayers for a New Year

Prayers of celebration, resolve & guidance.

Best wishes for our Lord's guidance & blessing in 2014!

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Advent's BIG Question

Lord Christ,

We still ask the question posed two millennia ago by John the Baptist:

Are you the one who is to come, or shall we look for another? (from Matthew 11:1-6)

It’s the latter for many. Their savior seems to be success, celebrity, money or power.

For some there’s doubt. Their savior seems to be science, and they struggle with the virgin birth, angels singing, visions and stars.

I pray that our detours and doubt are replaced with discernment, that John’s Advent query compels a confrontation of the heart…

With God’s personal intervention.

With Christ’s message of mercy and forgiveness.

With your healing power.

With the call to repentance and transformation.

With the Holy Spirit’s guidance and inspiration.

With the promise of eternal life.

With the force of Divine Love.

Jesus, you are The One. Amen.

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Isaiah's Fortelling

The prophet Isaiah figures prominently into Advent. 700 years before Jesus’ birth he foretold the Messiah’s coming. 

Advent Bible readings begin with his prophecy, but it wasn’t merely a prediction. The meaning and purpose of Christ’s coming are imbedded in his divination. Take a look at Isaiah 11:1-10.

Lord Christ, God in the world, God in my life,

Prepare me for Advent - for the meaning(s) of your arrival and your short visit with us.

I’m inclined toward holiday trimmings and nostalgia. That’s a blessing, but turn my heart toward Isaiah’s great insight. I hear your intentions for us, for our planet...

Respect for God and his power.

The value of Christ-like wisdom and understanding.

The holy pursuit of righteousness and faithfulness.

Justice for those in need, for the poor.
Peace among all people, all creation.

…for the earth will be full of the knowledge of the LORD as the waters cover the sea. (Isaiah 11:9)

Amen.

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