Streams of Mercy

A Prayer of Hope for the First Sunday of Advent

Gracious God, we speak this day of watching and waiting in Hope, expecting you to come and set things right, but the truth is, we’re weary of waiting. We’re weary of waiting for redemption and for reconciliation and for the peace that passes understanding. We’re weary of waiting for the meek to inherit the earth; for light and life; for the end of crying and mourning.

Come Lord, and fill our hearts with the hope that is ours in Jesus Christ.

We pray for healing in our personal lives and relationships, for peace on earth, for an end to bigotry and violence. We pray for countries devastated by war and natural disasters. We pray for our children and our children’s children, and all of your children.

Come Lord, and fill our hearts with the hope that is ours in Jesus Christ.

We pray for the day when little children are safe from those who would do them harm, and the hungry are fed and the homeless are sheltered. We pray for the assurance that our departed loved ones are safe in your care and keeping, and that we will see them again.

Come Lord, and fill our hearts with the hope that is ours in Jesus Christ.

As the days get shorter and the nights get deeper, we long for the angels to announce to the shepherds that Jesus has finally arrived. We hope to be close enough to overhear their chorus- the good news of great joy for us all. We hope to see the star we often miss as we look down, trying not to stumble in the dark. Lord, do not let the darkness overcome us as we wait.

Come Lord, and fill our hearts with the hope that is ours in Jesus Christ, in whose name we pray. Amen.

May we have the gift of hope as we begin this year’s Advent Journey.

Elizabeth