Advent Prayer

Heavenly Father,

We thank you for the abundant gifts you give each of us. We thank you most humbly for anointing us with your love.

Let us open our hearts this season of Advent to the indwelling of the Holy Spirit and the anticipation of the birth of your son – at once truly divine and truly human. Give us appreciation for the depth, breadth, and strength of your love for your children, to know personally and intimately that even though we are sinners, you sent your son to the cross to bear our sins.

Forgive us for our selfishness, our materialism, our vanity, and our pride. Turn our eyes toward you, Gracious God, and to your son, Jesus. Help us to be more Christ-like each day, modeling for all those we encounter the blessings we receive as a child of the Most High God.

Let us ask each day, What will I do for Jesus? As we examine our hearts, help us to find your Holy Spirit guiding us to be true disciples.

In all days, and all ways, we give praise, honor and glory to you. Pour out your blessings on all your creation. As eager children, we await the birth of Jesus, our savior, in whose name we pray, Amen.

© Ann Trimble-Ray 2010