Advent 2: The Soul Felt Its Worth

Bible Text: Mark 1:1-8 | Preacher: Rev. Seth J. Thomas | Series: The Weary World Rejoices: Advent 2020 |

Advent Candle Litany – Week 2
A voice cries out in the wilderness: “Prepare the way of the Lord.”
A choir sings in the silence, “Come, Emmanuel.”
Every valley shall be filled.
Every heart shall be made whole,
for peace is stronger than turmoil,
and love is louder than hate.

As we light our second Advent candle,
we pray for the holy peace of God.
Come now, O Child of Mary.
Come now, O Prince of Peace.

HYMN OF PRAISE ​
“Lift Up Your Heads, Ye Mighty Gates” – GTG #93

PRAYER OF CONFESSION
“Prepare the way of the Lord,” your prophet says to us.
Forgive us when we have failed to prepare your way.
Forgive us when we have stood in your way, instead:
when we let the challenging words of your prophets roll off of lives,
rather than let them spark change;
when we walk around a neighbor in need,
rather than encounter a chance for compassion.
Forgive us, O Lord, and grant us assurance
that the glory of your coming does not depend
upon the righteousness of your followers.
Forgive us, O Lord, and free us to try again. Amen.