by Beth Ann Gaede
God of hope, you are sending your messenger to prepare your way, to ready our hearts and minds for your coming.
Soon, the dawn from on high will break upon us.
You heal the brokenness that keeps us far from you, from one another, and from your good earth.
God of hope, you make straight what is crooked.
You fill the deep valleys and lower the steep mountains that challenge us in our daily lives.
God of hope, you make smooth the rough ways.
You forgive our sins as we forgive one another, calling us always to a life of wholeness.
God of hope, make us instruments of your peace.
You save us from our enemies, from all the forces of evil in this world, and from the power of death.
God of hope, let us shine your love on all creation.
You bring light to all who suffer in darkness, showing us how to live without fear.
God of hope, use us to show others your compassion.
You guide our feet into the way of peace.
Soon, the dawn from on high will break upon us. Amen.
Beth Ann Gaede is an Evangelical Lutheran Church in America pastor. She was editor of Alive Now and has worked with dozens of religious authors and publishers. She enjoys travel, studying Spanish, canoeing in the wilderness, and fly-fishing for trout.
Credit: Advent/Christmas prayers by Beth Ann Gaede. Permission granted to use in corporate worship settings. From November/December 2015 Alive Now. Copyright © 2015 by The Upper Room.
Share on Socials