If you were unable to join us in service this morning, here is our Advent Liturgy for you to ponder and pray over.
Lighting of the Advent Candles
Today we relight the first two candles of the Advent wreath. The candle of PEACE reminds us that we wait and prepare for the coming of Jesus; we remember that he is our Peace.
[Light the first candle]
The candle of HOPE - its light gives hope in our dark world and reminds us that Jesus is with us.
[Light the second candle]
Now we light the third candle of Advent. This is the candle of JOY. [Light the pink candle] As the coming of Jesus, our Savior, draws nearer, our joy builds with our anticipation of his birth. From the Book of Isaiah we read the words of our Lord: "But be glad and rejoice forever in what I am creating; for I am about to create Jerusalem as a joy, and its people as a delight." ~Isaiah 65:18 From the New Testament, the words of Paul to the people of the church at Galatia: "The fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, generosity, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. If we live by the Spirit, let us also be guided by the Spirit." ~Galatians 5:22-25 Closing Prayer We joyfully praise you, O Lord, for the fulfillment of your promise of a Savior and what that means in our lives. Thank you for the gift of salvation though the birth of your son, Jesus. Create us anew as we wait, and help us to see your glory as you fill our lives with your Living Spirit. Amen.
