4th Sunday in Advent

Taken from/inspired by Micah 5:2-5a; Luke 1:47-55; Psalm 80: 1-7; Luke 1:39-45; and the ANZPB

Bidding: Restore us, O God;

Response: make your face shine on us,
    that we may be saved.

When Elizabeth heard Mary’s greeting, the baby leapt in her womb, and Elizabeth was filled with the Holy Spirit.  In a loud voice she exclaimed: “Blessed are you among women, and blessed is the child you will bear! But why am I so favoured, that the mother of my Lord should come to me?  As soon as the sound of your greeting reached my ears, the baby in my womb leapt for joy. Blessed is she who has believed that the Lord would fulfil his promises to her!”  [Luke 1:41-45]

Let us pray.

His mercy extends to those who fear him,
    from generation to generation.
[Luke 1:50]

We pray for our families
and the communities around us.
Bless us as we look to welcome others into your family;
hold us in your love

[silence]

Bidding: Restore us, O God;

Response: make your face shine on us,
    that we may be saved.

He has performed mighty deeds with his arm;
    he has scattered those who are proud in their inmost thoughts.
[Luke 1: 51]

We pray that your church would reflect your mercy and humility.
Remind us of your faithfulness;
direct us beyond offerings and sacrifices
and conform us to your will.                        

[silence]

Bidding: Restore us, O God;

Response: make your face shine on us,
    that we may be saved.

He has brought down rulers from their thrones
    but has lifted up the humble.

 He has filled the hungry with good things
    but has sent the rich away empty.
[Luke 1:52-53]

We anticipate your arrival, and the world cries out for justice.
Bring peace to those at war,
convict the powerful to act
with compassion and love.

[silence]

Bidding: Restore us, O God;

Response: make your face shine on us,
    that we may be saved.

Then he said, “Here I am, I have come to do your will.” [He sets aside the first to establish the second]. And by that will, we have been made holy through the sacrifice of the body of Jesus Christ once for all.

God of all hope and joy,
open our hearts in welcome,
that your Son Jesus Christ at his coming
may find in us a dwelling prepared for himself;
through the same Jesus Christ our Lord.

Amen.