Second Advent and the candle of peace

Second Advent and the candle of peace.

When we meet on the second Sunday of Advent and light the candle of peace, we pray that as peacemakers, we will prepare the way for the Lord Jesus and his gospel to spread his light through our unity and love for each other as his followers.

Not for our own sake, or even in the first place for the sake of the Church, but because the whole human race desperately needs the peace of God.

With hearts awakened by this Season in order to see how Christ is the only answer for the conflict, war, envy and hatred that even kill people and at least destroy their joy, may God grant us the zeal of a John the Baptist, who gave his life to call everyone to repentance in order to be able to receive the Prince of Peace and to prepare his way to the hearts and minds of both individuals and communities devastated by disagreement, and even conflict.    

Peace with God in Christ brings peace within the congregation of the Lord’s people. And as we set an example to those who suffer as a result of fighting, disunity and pride that divides, hurts and destroys, our example as peacemakers will prepare the way for Jesus to reach others with his divine peace - the peace of God that surpasses all understanding.

Let’s pray for purified minds that care about what God cares about – reconciliation, friendship, mercy, humility, respect, empathy and sacrificial love as the remedy for the pain caused by rifts, schisms and hostilities.

And with minds cleansed from anger and hatred we will become instruments of peace, that Christ may reign as Prince of peace among us, to the glory of God the Father, in the unity of the Holy Spirit, for ever and ever.

Prayer:  Loving God, while we wait for Christ’s return and for your peace to prevail, enable each of us to work for harmony and serenity as we experience the various conflicts which abound in our lives and in our world.  As we worship you today, may your peace be born into our lives.

This we ask in Jesus’ name. Amen.

Other prayer points –

that the 16 days of activism against violence against women and children will bear much fruit and save many lives;

that as important leaders are being elected, the process will be honest, fair and serene;

for the end of violence amid the protest of workers who act for a better dispensation for themselves and their families;

for the eradication of poverty that causes anger, and even hatred and disillusionment.

for the healing of broken marriages, homes and families;

for the unity of all Christ’s followers

and for holy love to be visible within local churches and denominations.