Psalm 33 says that the eye of the Lord is truly on those who hope in his steadfast love. On this First Sunday of Advent, we light a candle of hope, and ask God to fill our hearts with expectation for the coming light, even during the darkest season of the year.
[The first candle is lit.]
Prayer:
Prayer:
Grant us your peace, O God, that our humble hearts may be your dwelling place this Christmas. Amen.
CANDLE 3: THE CANDLE OF JOY
In the First Song of Isaiah, God promised us that, with joy, we would draw water from the springs of salvation. On the Third Sunday of Advent, we light a candle of joy, for we know that God’s promises are real!
[The third candle is lit.]
Prayer:
Give us joy, O God, as we await the coming of your Son, for we know that he is nigh. Amen.
CANDLE 4: THE CANDLE OF LOVE
The psalmist trusted in God’s steadfast love, and his heart rejoiced in the coming salvation. On the Fourth Sunday of Advent, we light a candle of love, for we know that in Christ, love is born at Christmas.
Prayer:
Let us feel your love, O God, and help us to share it with those around us as we prepare for the birth of the Christ Child. Amen.
[The first candle is lit.]
Prayer:
Fill us with hope, O God, that your light will be kindled in our hearts this Christmas. Amen.
CANDLE 2: THE CANDLE OF PEACE
In Isaiah 11, we read that a day will come when the wolf shall live with the lamb, the leopard shall lie down with the kid, and a little child shall lead them. On the Second Sunday of Advent, we light a candle of peace with hearts that long for the promised Reign of God.[The second candle is lit.]
Prayer:
Grant us your peace, O God, that our humble hearts may be your dwelling place this Christmas. Amen.
[The third candle is lit.]
Prayer:
Give us joy, O God, as we await the coming of your Son, for we know that he is nigh. Amen.
[The fourth candle is lit.]
Prayer:
Let us feel your love, O God, and help us to share it with those around us as we prepare for the birth of the Christ Child. Amen.
