As we hear in today’s Gospel, “Prepare the way of the Lord” help us prepare ourselves in prayerful anticipation this Advent. Loving Lord, hear the prayers we place before you.
We pray for those around the world living in conflict. May world leaders act with compassion and urgency to help those most in need.
We pray for those that do not have enough. Enough food, warmth, shelter and love. May those that do not have enough feel the love of God within them this Advent. May they seek what they need to thrive and may others help and recognise their plight.
We pray for those that are lonely and isolated. As the busyness of Advent fills our homes and diaries with shared time in the company of our loved ones and friends, let us remember those that feel abandoned, those that are unseen, unheard and alone in our communities. Let us embrace them and bring them into our Christian hearts and homes.
We pray to be filled with the Holy Spirit. Let this Advent bring us closer to the infant Jesus and may his birth bring about a newness in each of us.
We pray for a moment for our own personal petitions…
Lord God, help us to carve out meaningful time with you this Advent. Amen.