Lord, we look to you
Pray this Advent litany which speaks of compassion, mercy and reconciliation.
A road in Marsabit, Kenya
In those days John the Baptist came preaching in the wilderness of Judea, ‘Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is at hand.’
John fulfils the words of the prophet Isaiah, who told of a voice crying out in the wilderness to prepare the way of the Lord.
During this Advent season, we are also preparing the way of the Lord. We are called to repentance.
It is an opportunity to think about the times when we have not got things quite right. The times when our actions have hurt others or had negative consequences – whether for the people closest to us, for our community or our world.
We reflect today on the times when we have placed our needs over the rights of our sisters and brothers living in poverty. The times when we have prioritised convenience over protecting the environment.
Repenting is not just about saying sorry. It is about changing our ways and trying to live differently. We are called to straighten paths, by looking at what is crooked and unjust in our world and playing our part in transforming these systems and situations for the good of all.
Advent prayer
God of mercy,
guide us as we seek
to straighten the paths of injustice
and prepare a way for you.
Lead us in your ways
as together we bring about change
for the good of all.
Amen.
Act
Spend time in repentance and prayer today as we look for the Lord.