WELCOME

PSALM 24:7 (ABP)
Open up the big old gates to allow the king in all his glory to enter.

JOHN 1:12 (CEB)
But those who did welcome him,
those who believed in his name,
he authorized to become God’s children...

SUMMARY SENTENCE
When we welcome Jesus we are welcoming God, who graciously deals with us as he would any of his children.

PRAYER
Thank you, God, for coming. Forgive us for the stress we generate about your advent. But the fact is that you have been showing up on a regular basis for all time. It is normal for your children to expect and welcome you. Channel my faith into fruitful activity so that I'll have a good welcome gift for you. Amen.

THE LORD’S PRAYER
Our Father in heaven, hallowed be your Name, your Kingdom come, your will be done, on earth as in heaven. Give us today our daily bread. Forgive us our sins as we forgive those who sin against us. Save us from the time of trial and deliver us from evil. For the kingdom, the power, and the glory are yours now and forever. Amen.