Yes, the stores are decked with Christmas lights, bows, and ribbons. You may have even started your shopping at midnight on “Black Friday.” Perhaps you’ve decorated your home and put the Christmas lights up on the trees in your yards. But this Sunday, November 27, 2011 begins ADVENT!
As you prepare for Christmas, don’t forget what we are truly preparing for!
Come, long-expected Jesus. Excite in me a wonder at the wisdom and power of Your Father and ours. Receive my prayer as part of my service of the Lord who enlists me in God’s own work for justice.
Come, long-expected Jesus. Excite in me a hunger for peace: peace in the world, peace in my home, peace in myself.
Come, long-expected Jesus. Excite in me a joy responsive to the Father’s joy. I seek His will so I can serve with gladness, singing and love.
Come, long-expected Jesus. Excite in me the joy and love and peace it is right to bring to the manger of my Lord. Raise in me, too, sober reverence for the God who acted there, hearty gratitude for the life begun there, and spirited resolution to serve the Father and Son.
I pray in the name of Jesus Christ, whose advent I hail. Amen.
Related articles
- Advent 1: Year B – November 27, 2011 (prayerbookguide.wordpress.com)
- A Prayer for the First Sunday of Advent 2011 (godspace.wordpress.com)
The Prayer Book Guide to Christian Education 
Brilliant link, Sharon. Wish I’d had it last week for Child in the Midst!!!