Advent Prayer 1

O God, we know our times are in your hand: we thank You for your gift of love in the sending of your Son to be God With Us. Send the light of Christ into our hearts that we may prepare to welcome him in joy and thanksgiving. Help us to welcome his message of salvation, made real in working for justice, peace, and forgiveness. Help us make a home for the Christ-child in each of our hearts, and bear his Name with love and joyfulness. Send the balm of Christ's healing love to those who are in need, pain, or sadness, especially those we now name.

Amen.