To God who welcomes all in love,
let us pray for the good of the church
and the concerns of those in need.
As the prophet Isaiah rang out, “Arise, shine; for your light has come”;
empower your Church, O God,
to ring out the Good News of the Light of your son Jesus,
which pierces even the deepest darkness.
As a star rose high into the nighttime sky
to draw the nations to the Christ-child;
send your blessing, O God, on this nation, and every nation,
and draw the whole world to your peace and truth.
Lord, in your mercy,
Hear our prayer.
You hear us calling,
You hear us calling,
Abba Father.
As John the Baptist guided throngs of people to the edge of the wilderness
and baptized Jesus in the River Jordan,
we pray that you would guide our country and our leaders
to the ways of justice and righteousness.
Like the Magi who traveled from afar
to bring gifts and celebrate the Savior’s birth;
we pray for this community,
and for those who are celebrating the birth of new babies,
Birthdays, and anniversaries.
As Jesus climbed the mountaintop,
and proclaimed blessings on the people of the world;
we pray for the sick and the distressed, the poor and the lame.
Lord, in your mercy,
Hear our prayer.
You hear us calling,
You hear us calling,
Abba Father.
As Jesus called his disciples to leave their nets and boats, and follow him;
we pray for those we love and who have answered your call
to follow Jesus to your Heavenly Kingdom. Give them your peace.
Lord Jesus, Light of the World,
hear our prayers, and make us reflections of your Light,
that the places of darkness in our world would be pierced by your Light,
and that all nations would be drawn to you and be overwhelmed with joy.
God of every land and nation,
you have created all people
and you dwell among us in Jesus Christ.
Listen to the cries of those who pray to you,
and grant that, as we proclaim the greatness of your name,
all people will know the power of love at work in the world.
We ask this through Christ our Lord. Amen.
Lord have mercy,
Christhave mercy.
Lord have mercy,
Christhave mercy.