Devotional – December 3, 2024

From Rev. Maren Tirabassi:

Prayer for Advent

God, as we gather into Advent,

let me embrace the Nativity

so that I can embrace

those near to me and far away,

for my own strength is not enough.

On every day of Advent,

let me light all four candles

of the Wreath,

(at least in my mind) and sit

with hope, peace, joy, and love,

just for a moment 

so I can respond

to what someone may need,

and to what I may need.

Let me sing a carol or two 

every day … not waiting 

for the human-dated holiday

so a sweet song, a soft one, 

or one bright as a bell,

come quick to my tongue.

Let me read the old texts often,

as friends, not lessons in candles,

reflect on each aspect

to face realities coming this year,

with calm, courage, trust,

and to recognize,

on the very personal level,

someone who’s life

has been upended by an angel …

someone who’s lost sight of a star …

sings about holy justice …

works through the night …

or is at the juncture

between shutting a door

or offering a manger. 

Center me in this Advent season,

so I expect Christmas 

to surprise me every day. amen

Peace Be With You. – Paul