The people walking in darkness have seen a great light; on those living in the land of deep darkness a light has dawned. Isaiah 9:2
This time of Advent, we pray for the world, that it will be ready for the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ, when He comes in glory. We pray for peace, we pray for justice, we pray for those who are exploited, the poor preyed upon by the rich, the weak put down by the strong. With Mary we pray: He has brought down rulers from their thrones but has lifted up the humble. He has filled the hungry with good things but has sent the rich away empty.
I don’t have to remind you that we give grateful thanks to God for sending Jesus into the world to save us from sin and ourselves. We pray that the world will see beyond the tinsel and feasting and turn to worship the King in the stable.We pray for the children and families that will receive the toys that we have collected for them. We pray for that they will find the love and friendship that is tucked inside the presents, and know that we care for them, even though we don’t know who they are.
We pray for all the special Christmas Services, Wreathing, Carols, Christingle and all the things going on around them. We pray for all those who don’t normally come to Church, that they will find a welcome and an inclusion, so that they feel at home in their Father’s house. We pray for families coming home for the celebrations, that they will renew old friendships and find new ones.
And, in a different tone, we pray for all who find Christmas and all other annual celebrations, just too much to bear. We pray for them to find peace, that peace which only God can give, being held in His arms in their hurting. We pray for their healing, of body, mind and spirit, that they may come through their difficulties and out into the light of Christ.
Today, in the town of David, a Saviour has been born to you; He is the Messiah, the Lord. Luke 2:11