Breath of Eternity, who creates all that lives,
As the year begins, we confess that we rather not live at the distance we maintain. Strengthen our intent to live as those more fully aware of your Presence throughout each day. Use this silent moment to enfold us in the knowledge that we are wholly yours. Give us new confidence to reach and stretch, letting go of our will in order to live within yours. Make love our first resolution. Amen.
Holy Child, whose arrival is different from expected,
On this blessed morning, we pause to realize the richness of your Presence. May one of the gifts we open, today, be the gift of poverty within our hearts. Change us this Christmas season. Give us opportunities to submit to the power of peace and ground our every hope in redeeming love. Bring fresh joy to all creation! Amen.
Light of Glory, who illuminates each dawn with fresh hope,
With this breath, purify us with the quiet calm of your Presence. Help us to accept whatever might be confining or limiting in our lives. Melt away anything that keeps us from remembering our true identity. Move us through the darkness of this season shining light on each blessing, especially in those places that seem cold and empty. Make Advent happen in us. Amen.
Maker of Wonder, who brings us to awe in unexpected ways,
In this silent stream, examine our hearts and still our souls. We wait for Your loving Presence to transform our fear to gentle confidence. Prepare us, this day, to be those who find the treasures of peace and hope amongst those who are lonely, anxious and suffering in our families and communities. Bring us to rejoice in the connections shared through open hearts. Amen.
God of Blessing, whose abundance is found beyond the things of this world.
Clear the path for our gratitude in this silence. Satisfy our hunger with faith, love, and hope rather than that which we see and touch. We are thankful that your generosity relieves us of our immobility. We encounter your Presence as we connect and respond with the need of those around us. For those we do not reach, we pray trusting in your great mercy. Remind us all that You alone are enough. Amen.
Janet Salbert 