(Image courtesy of poetrysync.blogspot.com)
Brothers and Sisters in Christ, hear these words concerning the prophecy of the Messiah, Christ our Lord, from the Prophet Isaiah:
“The people who walked in darkness have seen a great light; those who lived in a land of deep darkness– on them light has shined. You have multiplied the nation, you have increased its joy; they rejoice before you as with joy at the harvest, as people exult when dividing plunder. For the yoke of their burden, and the bar across their shoulders, the rod of their oppressor, you have broken as on the day of Midian. For all the boots of the tramping warriors and all the garments rolled in blood shall be burned as fuel for the fire. For a child has been born for us, a son given to us; authority rests upon his shoulders; and he is named Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. His authority shall grow continually, and there shall be endless peace for the throne of David and his kingdom. He will establish and uphold it with justice and with righteousness from this time onward and forevermore. The zeal of the LORD of hosts will do this” (Isaiah 9:2-7 NRS).
Lord, hear our prayer:
Out of the darkness we cry to you, O God.
We wait for your return, the Second Advent, by recalling with great anticipation the first time you walked among your people.
Born to bear our burden, to free us of our guilt,
You carried our sin to the cross.
All authority is given to you, and by your word we are healed.
Help us to wait with patience, but not inertia.
Lead us onward to build the Kingdom,
And spread hope to the ends of the earth.
Let our days be filled with acts of kindness and mercy,
Born of Christ-like hearts filled with love and compassion.
We yearn for the grace born only of your offering upon the cross.
Come, O Lord, and fill your people.
Amen.
She Offered Them Christ 