Michelle Ritchie from Arotahi invites us to join in a global prayer journey this advent with a prayer guide Created by Arotahi staff and global partners.
Advent ('coming') is the time of preparation for Christmas, beginning on the fourth Sunday before Christmas. Advent scripture readings focus on preparation for the coming of the Messiah, and, anticipation for the second coming of Christ. This year we focus on stories. Stories from Jesus' lineage, our whakapapa at Arotahi, new stories from our friends working in the ends of the earth, and, we reflect on three of our precious Arotahi kauri who are no longer with us. Stories of people being woven into God's mahi, spreading light in the world.
Please join us in this global prayer journey from Advent to Epiphany, as we anticipate and proclaim the arrival of the one who brings love, identity and purpose to all people, in all nations.
You'll find prayers, scriptures to journey with, and stories from our global friends and partners as we pray together, for God's world and for our part in it.
“A shoot shall come out from the stump of Jesse, and a branch shall grow out of his roots.”
Isaiah11:1
Jesse was the father of David, Israel’s greatest king. And Jesus is descended from the line of David. He is the branch God promised would grow from Jesse’s family tree.
Lord God,
you have given us the example of these men and women. In their lives, they sought & seek to give glory to you and to live in your grace.
By the mystery of your love draw us ever closer to you. Strengthen us with your grace and raise our hearts and minds to heaven, and to your call on our lives.
Amen.
Open the daily readings for Advent 2023 here.
Photo: From Arotahi daily readings, Advent 2023
