Oh Jesus- You who took on flesh- Becoming one of us, Knowing our aches and pains, Feeling our pangs and longings, Suffering and lamenting like we do. You didn't have to do that. But you did. In our dark night you are the light that dawns. In our sin and shame you are the arms open wide. Guilty and damned we were, Hopeless and driftless and weary, Until you came. Gloria in Excelsis Deo
Oh Immanuel- You who are with us- Help us to feel your presence, Even as the darkness oppresses: Plaguing our bodies with cancer, Riddling our children with bullets, Flooding our homes with seawater, Filling our minds with despair. Kindle the fire within us that longs to burn for you. When we feel you are most distant, Let our pining affirm you are there.
Oh Prince of Peace- You who rule over all- Return in the flesh again soon. Rebuild this broken city. Repair the breach of Eden. Restore the blossoms in our Paradise lost. Come right all wrongs, oh King. In furious, fiery fanfare, Let the world see the fullness of justice for the first time. And perfect peace. The end of hospitals. Unpolluted air. Rivers of life that never run dry.
Oh giver of all- You who shower us with grace- Help us to receive your love And come when you call. Help us to never stop singing the praises of your name. In our paintings, stories, business pursuits, May we reflect your glory and contribute to the epic. Telling of the tabernacle, the manger, the cross. Spreading your light as you lead us, Making inroads in the dark.