advent - joy

What is Advent?

Advent is the holy season that precedes Christmas. From the Latin adventus, meaning “arrival,” it is a time of hope and expectancy, when Christians prepare their hearts for the coming of Christ. Each of the four weeks of advent encompass a theme; this week’s theme is Joy, Mercy, Redemption, and Steadfast Faith. Use these prayers and Scriptures to prepare your heart for the celebration of Christ’s birth. 

Advent Collect (Book of Common Prayer)

Stir up your power, O Lord, and with great might come among us; and, because we are sorely hindered by our sins, let your bountiful grace and mercy speedily help and deliver us; through Jesus Christ our Lord, to whom, with you and the Holy Spirit, be honor and glory, now and for ever. Amen.

Select Prayer (Revised Common Lectionary)

God of hope, you call us home from the exile of selfish oppression to the freedom of justice, the balm of healing, and the joy of sharing. Make us strong to join you in your holy work, as friends of strangers and victims, companions of those whom others shun, and as the happiness of those whose hearts are broken. We make our prayer through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

Scripture

Hebrew Bible          Psalm                  New Testament                  Gospel

Isaiah 35:1-10         Psalm 146           James 5:7-10               Matthew 11:2-11