Advent Two – Saturday

Matthew 2:17-18

I am still speechless. Thanks to the Presbyterian Church (USA) for reminding me of this hymn.

God, we have heard it, sounding in the silence: News of the children lost to this world’s violence. Children of promise! Then without a warning, Loved ones are mourning.

Jesus, you came to bear our human sorrow; You came to give us hope for each tomorrow. You are our life, Lord God’s own love revealing. We need your healing!

Heal us from giving weapons any glory; Help us, O Prince of Peace, to hear your story; Help us resist the evil all around here; May love abound here!

By your own Spirit, give your church a clear voice; In this world’s violence, help us make a new choice. Help us to witness to the joy your peace brings, Until your world sings!

HERZLIEBSTER JESU: Johann Crueger, 1640 (Ah, Holy Jesus) Hymn text copyright © 1999 by Carolyn Winfrey Gillette. All rights reserved.

Amen, and amen…

Advent Two – Friday

Psalm 130

I’m almost speechless with the news of the tragedy in Connecticut this morning.

⁵   I wait for the LORD, my soul waits,
and in his word I hope;
⁶   my soul waits for the Lord
more than those who watch for the morning,
more than those who watch for the morning.

How long, Lord?