Lighting the Advent Wreath
All: O come, Desire of nations bind all peoples in one heart and mind. From dust thou brought us forth to life; deliver us from earthly strife.
Our souls magnify the Lord and our spirits rejoice in God for God has looked with favor on us, God’s servants.
God has brought down the powerful from their thrones, and lifted up the lowly. God has filled the hungry with good things and sent the rich away empty.
God of Justice, God of Peace, we open our hearts to you. Give us grace to be instruments of your righteousness.
Give us courage to turn away from distractions and distortions and turn toward the home you have made, are making, and will complete through Christ.
All: We, God’s people, sing songs of joy with the prophet, “I will greatly rejoice in the LORD, my whole being shall exult in my God.” (Isaiah 61:10, NRSV)
Light all four Advent candles.