Prayer for the World December 27, 2023

Greetings this Final Week of Advent.  This prayer comes from the Leadership Conference of Women Religious.  

Blessings to you as we move through these final days of Advent,

Sr. Beatrice Haines,

OLVM Social Justice Coordinator

Final Week of Advent

Opening Song: Be Born in Me

Opening Prayer

Standing on the threshold of the invitation to birth, in the presence of the chaos of war, division and grief, let us have the courage to hold the paradox of this moment. May we be those who have the courage to make space for the unknown light to lead us to the manger.

Scripture

The angel said to them, “Do not be afraid; for behold, I proclaim to you good news of great joy that will be for all the people. For today in the city of David a savior has been born for you who is Christ and Lord. And this will be a sign for you: you will find an infant wrapped in swaddling clothes and lying in a manger.” Luke 2: 10

Poem

“The Work of Christmas” is from Howard Thurman’s The Mood of Christmas and Other Celebrations.

When the song of the angels is stilled,

when the star in the sky is gone,

when the kings and princes are home,

when the shepherds are back with their flocks,

the work of Christmas begins:

to find the lost,

to heal the broken,

to feed the hungry,

to release the prisoner,

to rebuild the nations,

to bring peace among the people,

to make music in the heart.

Listen: That Little Voice

Questions for Reflection

As we embark upon a new year, what graces have been present in your journey this year?

Where might that little voice be an invitation into a new way of presence?

How might you encourage another to remain in the manger?

Closing Prayer

We welcome you, Child of Wonder, into the manager of our hearts. May we find ourselves unafraid to speak your words, listen for your invitation, remain in moments of tension, forgive and be forgiven as we begin again. Give us eyes to see the angels and wisdom to receive the dream.