Advent reflection day 17

Opening Prayer

Lord of light and the darkness,
May your Spirit guide our preparations for Christmas.
Help us to seek quiet spaces to hear your voice each day.
In our anxiety may we look forward to your coming among us and be blessed by the joy of your presence.
When we feel as if we are walking in darkness may we see your light as we say,
“Come, Lord Jesus!” Amen.

Words from Psalm 72

Refrain: The Lord is king; let the earth rejoice.

Give the king your judgements, O God, . . .
Then shall he judge your people righteously . . .
May the mountains bring forth peace, . . .
May he defend the poor among the people, deliver the children of the needy and crush the oppressor.

Blessed be the Lord, the God of Israel, who alone does wonderful things.
And blessed be his glorious name for ever. May all the earth be filled with his glory. Amen. Amen.

This psalm was written for King Solomon but the opening words could apply to leaders today and the policies they introduce. Should these opening words of the Psalmist influence today our prayers today?

May your kingdom come, O God,
with deliverance for the needy,
with peace for the righteous,
with overflowing blessing for all nations,
with glory, honour and praise
for Christ, the only Saviour.
(Prayer Shared from ‘Reflection on the Psalms’ app. Material subject to copyright)

May God the Holy Spirit make us steadfast in faith,
joyful in hope and constant in love.

 

Rev. Derek Akker