Monday, November 28, 2011

Advent prayers

Creator of the stars of night, your people's everlasting light,
O Christ,redeemer of us all, we pray you hear us when we call.
In sorrow that the ancient curse should doom to death a universe,
You came, O savior, to set free
 your own in glorious liberty.
Come, sun and savior to embrace
our gloomy world, its weary race,
as groom to bride, as bride to groom:
the wedding chamber, Mary's womb.
At your great name, O Jesus now
all knees must bend, all hearts must bow;
All things on earth with one accord,
like those in heav'n , shall call you Lord.
Come in your holy might, we pray,
Redeem us for eternal day;
Defend us while we dwell below,
For all assaults of our dread foe. ---8th century.


O Lord, you promised that you would come again.  We await your return, doubting if you will.  We grow weary under the tyranny of sin and death.  We long for your forgiveness, your freedom, your peace.  We search for signs of your eternal presence.  We hope for your good future to arrive, bringing life and salvation to every living thing.  Will you come again?  Will we see your face? Will you come down to dwell with your people?  Will you make all things new? Come, Lord Jesus. Amen.

Stir up your power, Lord Christ and come.  By your merciful protection awaken us to the threatening dangers of our sins, and keep us blameless until the coming of your new day, for you live and reign with the Father and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever. Amen.

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