All creation holds its breath.
The time is almost here.
The heavenly choir of angels waits for its cue to sing.
Excitement is all around us.
Prepare your hearts–The grace of God takes on human form.
Good news! Emmanuel, God-with-Us, comes to us.
We gather to make ready our hearts for the coming of Christ, our hope.
Opening Prayer
O Holy One, we come to this time of worship, longing for the healing presence of your Spirit in our world. As a shepherd patiently tends their flock, so you watch after your people. Restore us, O Gentle Shepherd, for it is in your grace that we find wholeness and in your mercy that we are made new.
Gathered here we remember you call us by name; in this place we are fully embraced in your welcome. In this moment and every moment, may we rest in the assurance of your love and may we learn to extend your welcome to all. In the name of Jesus we trust and pray, Amen.
