First Week of Advent
Opening
Divine One, as I sit here with you, quiet my swirling thoughts, as you calmed the sea. Soothe my aching heart. Help me to know the comfort of your presence at this time, as I seek you.
Invitation
Take a moment or two and breathe in God’s name, “Emmanuel.” Inhale “Em-ma” and exhale “nuel” Do this for a moment or two.
Reflection
As we begin Advent, we may feel unconnected or disconnected because of all we and the world have been through in the last year. There is so much we long for, for ourselves, our loved ones, the community, and the world. We bring all that with us to this season and to the One who holds us close.
Read Advent Longing through a few times. Pause and reflect on a word or phrase on where you are drawn.
Advent Longing
Loving One,
As we begin this season
We do so as those who are straining through the fog
To glimpse a light to illuminate our path.
We are weary and overwhelmed with all that has been.
We long for your presence
To be experienced in tangible ways.
This Advent,
Awaken us to notice you within us and around us.
Enfold us in your compassionate embrace
and remind us that in you, we are home.
Prayer
Thank you loving God that you love and receive us as we are with all we bring. Remind us and center us in that we are so loved by you. May it fill us with hope and peace. Connect us to each other as living expressions of your love in the world around us. Amen.