In this second week of Advent we are focused on John the Baptist, the prophet who proclaimed the coming of Jesus the Messiah. John worked hard to encourage and exhort people to prepare for the coming of Christ, preaching of the need for repentance. But he also talked about the need to minister to others, as a way of preparing for the one who would ultimately minister to us. For in showing grace, we recognize grace.
Happy Advent!
Cross: In the name of the Father, Son and Holy Spirit, Amen.
Invitatory Bead: “And the crowds asked him, ‘What then should we do?’ In reply he said to them, ‘Whoever has two coats must share with anyone who has none; and whoever has food must do likewise.’” (Luke 3:10 – 11, NRSV)
1st Cruciform Bead: Lord, I confess the times when I have not shown mercy to my neighbor.
1st set of Week Beads: use each bead to confess to God the times when you have not shown kindness or mercy to your neighbor.
2nd Cruciform Bead: Lord, help me to know who my neighbors are.
2nd set of Week Beads: use each bead to pray that God will help you to recognize your neighbors and their needs.
3rd Cruciform Bead: Lord, help me to reveal your love and mercy to my neighbor.
3rd set of Week Beads: use each bead to pray for God to use you to reveal His love and grace to your neighbor.
4th Cruciform Bead: Lord, thank you for the ways in which you reveal your love and mercy to us, even though we don’t deserve it.
4th set of Week Beads: use each bead to thank God for the ways in which He reveals his love and mercy to you.
Invitatory Bead: recite The Lord’s Prayer
Cross: In the name of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, Amen
